Introduction.
Before you start to discuss this toolbox talk, you will first of all discuss the previous accidents and near misses cases, if there are any in the workplace. Review them carefully and make sure that the workers are aware of them. Then, go on to review other hazards that can be seen in the workplace and explain to workers how to work safely and prevent the hazards from causing harm to them. Then, start the topic of the day.
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Toolbox talk on defensive driving.
When operating any moving vehicle, drivers must ensure that they practise defensive driving. They must deploy various defensive driving techniques. Those techniques include maintaining safe following distances between vehicles, ensuring that the driver is prepared for the unexpected, and anticipating other drivers’ actions, etc. Defensive driving is more or less about driving to prevent an accident from happening and not just reacting to it.
Various Techniques a good defensive driver will deploy to ensure safety on the road.
- On entering the road, the driver should learn how to sweep the scene, sides, and back, and avoid “tunnel vision.” Keep your eyes moving, and position the vehicle slightly offset from traffic to increase your field of vision.
- When the driver is on the road, remember to glance well ahead in the direction of travel to anticipate and look for other vehicles ahead, and observe their driving conditions.
- Always remember to check your mirrors to know what is behind you.
- As a driver, you should be aware of your reaction time, know when to react, and be ready to respond if necessary.
- Avoid distractions while on the wheel. Distractions from making calls with the cell phone, food, and other activities. Ensure that you focus on the road when driving.
- Remember to check the right, left, and right when entering intersections and to come to a complete stop before proceeding.
- Maintain a cautious driving attitude when driving.
- Watch the weather and plan against weather, debris, potholes, and sand that may be on the road.
- Constantly adjust your speed to road conditions and ensure that you can control your vehicle at all times.
Conclusion.
After presenting the toolbox talk on defensive driving, ask for feedback from the workers and know their reactions. Also, encourage them that the best thing that is needed from them is to deploy defensive driving techniques at all times whenever they are driving, as it helps to save and prevent accidents.
Onyeka Emma is a QHSE Professional with more than 10 years of experience in occupational health and safety, which spans many industries such as construction, beverage, oil and gas, etc. He has many health and safety certifications, including NEBOSH IGC, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, and ISO 45001:2018 Lead auditor certificate. A member of IOSH, ISPON, and Nigeria Red Cross Society. He is interested in business, entrepreneurship, Speaking, and motivating people to do better for themselves. He enjoys leisure with a good motivational book.
