By Joe Mungai
T
he increasing rate of road carnage in Kenya poses significant challenges to the transportation and logistics industry. The safety of life and the protection of goods and vehicle should be the core business of every driver. Fleet owners need to employ measures that can be implemented to mitigate risk.
Before commencing a journey, truck drivers should ensure cargo is properly secured on the trailer. Use appropriate restraints such as straps, chains, or load bars to prevent shifting, or falling during transit. When driving an empty truck, ensure that any loose equipment such as tarps, straps, or spare tires are securely fastened.
Drivers need to evenly balance the load to distribute the weight of the cargo across the trailer. Unevenly distributed weight can affect the truck’s stability and handling by shifting the centre of gravity.
Drivers should make it a habit to perform pre-trip inspections to identify any potential issues with the truck, or cargo. Check the tires condition and pressure levels, brakes, lights, mirrors, just to mention a few. The inspection applies to both empty and cargo ferrying trailers.
When carrying cargo, drivers ought to adjust their driving techniques to account for the increased weight and altered handling characteristics of the truck by ensuring an increase in following distance, anticipate braking distances and make smoother turns to maintain control and reduce the risk of accidents.
Trucks require powerful braking systems that are obtained by use of mechanical leverage and air pressure. Brakes must be used keeping in mind the heat generated by friction. If the heat becomes too great, braking effectiveness will be lost. The heavier the load and the faster the speed, the greater the force needed to stop.
The braking force required to stop a vehicle varies directly with its weight and speed. If the weight is doubled, the braking force must be doubled. If the speed is doubled, the braking force must be increased four times. When weight and speed are both doubled, the braking force must be increased eight times.
Observe height restrictions on different roads, bridges, tunnels and overpasses. Before embarking on a trip a driver needs to ensure that the height of your truck, including the cargo, is within the allowed limits to prevent collisions, or damage to the cargo.
Empty trucks are more susceptible to being affected by strong winds. Drivers are advised to reduce their speed during windy conditions to maintain stability.
It is important for drivers to remain attentive and focused on the road at all times regardless of whether you are carrying cargo, or an empty truck. Avoid distractions such as phones and meals, fatigue and complacency. Maintain situational awareness and be prepared to react to any potential hazards on the road. In the event of fatigue, park the truck and rest.
Training programs should be tailored to meet the specific needs and challenges of an organization and the drivers employed. Additionally, incorporating interactive elements like simulations, case studies, and hands-on practice can enhance the effectiveness of the training program.
