Changing workforce demographics are creating new road safety challenges for fleet operators, according to licence checking firm Licence Bureau.
It says there is a dual challenge arising, with on one hand a growing number of young people starting work with ‘mobility expectations’, and on the other hand rising retirement ages meaning older employees on the road.
The firm argues that while historically middle management employees aged between 30 and 50 were generally accepted as more likely to be driving for business, this is now less often the case.
It cites Department for Transport statistics showing that the proportion of people aged 17 to 20 with a driving licence increased by 8% in 2018, while the number of licence holders aged between 60 and 69 reached the highest level since records began.
Licence Bureau sales director Steve Pinchen said: “It’s a bit of a ‘perfect storm’ scenario, with challenges rising at opposite ends of the employee spectrum.
“Typically, road users’ knowledge, experience and skills develop with experience over time. But they can also deteriorate based on age, and changes in cognitive and physical capability.
“The key is to ensure all company car drivers, grey fleet and user chooser drivers are treated as individuals and given access to the appropriate support mechanisms such as risk assessments, employee audits and road safety training.”
