Driver and Passenger Security
Driver and passenger security includes the safety and security of the vehicle, its load, the driver and passengers. The issue of fleet security should be taken seriously to reduce the potential of security incidents occurring.
Some areas that should be covered in a fleet security standard and procedure are detailed below.
Safe stopping principles, including:
• Parking off road wherever possible
• Using a secure guarded site wherever possible
• Reversing into the parking space when parking
• Keeping vehicle windows closed
• Locking vehicle doors
• Removing keys from the vehicle
Keeping safe whilst in the vehicle, including:
• Locking doors and closing windows whenever appropriate
• Keeping valuables out of sight
• Not stopping unless there is a genuine emergency
• When stopping, position the vehicle ready for an urgent departure if necessary
Other issues that should be covered in relation to driver security include:
• Ensuring drivers always carry their ID and Driver’s Licence
• Avoiding night driving
• Not opening doors or windows to strangers
• Watching out for suspicious people by their vehicle when they return
• Not stopping to eat or rest on deserted roads
• Locking the vehicle at fuel stations
• Not getting out of vehicles to clear road obstructions
• Ensuring drivers carry their mobile phone
• Ambush and kidnap procedures
• Mines
There are a number of leaflets available to organisations, which can help them improve the personal security of staff members.
Case study example from Save the Children US
The organisation CEO travelled to the Country Office to visit programs and support staff.
When he arrived at the airport he was met by the Country Office driver. The CEO sat in the rear seat and waited for the driver to depart. After several minutes the vehicle still had not moved. The CEO wondered aloud whether the driver was waiting for another passenger. The driver responded, “Oh no sir, but I cannot move the vehicle until you have fastened your seat belt.” This the CEO did and the vehicle proceeded. When the CEO returned to the headquarters he sent a memo to the Country Director commending the driver and reinforcing the need for discipline from the top of the organisation to the bottom. (NOTE: it is not uncommon for a driver to feel intimidated in the presence of senior staff and therefore feel reluctant to remind them to fasten the seatbelt. In this case it was not until the CEO inquired that the driver felt he had ‘permission’ to respond.)
