The Question:

Why should an organisation develop a Consequence Management Framework for work related driving safety?
This Q&A explores what a consequence management framework is, the importance of having a clear and comprehensive consequence management framework for work related driving safety, and how such a framework may be developed.

Scope of the problem:

Driving for work is one of the most dangerous work related activities1a, 1b, 1c. In fact, individuals who drive for work are twice as likely to be involved in a motor vehicle crash than personal car drivers, accounting for over 33% of all road fatalities each year.

Although road users are expected to comply with traffic and Work Health and Safety legislation, it is no longer assumed that the responsibility of a work related vehicle crash lies solely with a driver3. Rather, companies and organisations have been shown to play a key role, especially in the area
of workplace frameworks and reforms. In acknowledging their role, many organisations have begun to develop and implement a consequence management framework specifically aimed at work related driving safety. Such a framework aims to effectively manage compliance with road
rules, and safety policies and procedures to encourage safe driving behaviour on all Australian roads.

This Q&A utilises case studies from NRSPP partners including: Sanofi, Telstra and SA Power Networks.

What is a Consequence Management Framework?

Companies and organisations have a responsibility to comply with many legislative requirements. Additionally, employees within an organisation have an obligation to comply with internal procedures and policies. A consequence management framework, also known as a compliance policy, is an internal system or process that outlines an organisation’s approach to managing compliance and mitigating compliance risk.

In the area of work related road safety, a consequence management framework encourages an organisation to act in accordance with relevant traffic and Work Health and Safety legislation and ensures that employees uphold organisational road safety practices.

Please refer to the Q&A article for the entire content.