Driver Fitness/Duty, Driving & Rest Hours

Image © IOGP

This is part of the Driver-Related Practices from the IOGP Land Transportation Safety Recommended Practice documented in their Report 365. This page only summarises the guidance – refer to the IOGP report and/or IOGP website for further information.

Only operate a vehicle if fully alert and fit-to-drive.

  • Being fatigued increases the risk of losing control of a vehicle.
  • Drivers are fit-to-drive and be fully alert while operating a vehicle. Drivers to be assessed/ screened to ensure they are fit to work/drive and able to operate a vehicle safely.
  • Apply the IOGP Life-Saving Rule for Driving: “I am fit, rested, and fully alert while driving”.

Drivers:

  • Only operate a vehicle if appropriately rested and alert.
  • Do not work more than 14 hours and not drive more than 10 hours within a rolling 24 hour period when driving a vehicle (refer to IOGP Report 365 Section B.3).
  • Take rest breaks as prescribed, wherever possible a 15 minute break after every 2 hours of driving. Never drive more than 4.5 consecutive hours without taking a 30 minute break (refer to IOGP Report 365 Section B.3).
  • Exercise their right to refuse to drive if they feel that they are not fully rested and alert.
  • Undertake a driver fitness assessment before commencing to drive on company business and thereafter at least once every five years.
  • Advise their supervisor or person in charge if they have a condition that could prevent them from driving safely.

Supervisors, Managers, Leaders:

  • Provide drivers with effective information on how to identify fatigue and lack of alertness, and the means of dealing with them.
  • Monitor and ensure that driving and duty hours as set out in IOGP Report 365 Section B.3 are adhered to by all drivers.
  • Have a process in place to offer the driver fitness assessment.

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