Arval is considering extending a trial for a seatbelt locking device which claims to improve safety and posture.

Trials of the CG-Lock system started in April with 20 drivers. The product, which costs £50, is a palm-sized device that clips on to the seatbelt to eliminate slack, keeping the user in the safest position. It also keeps the seatbelt across the pelvis rather than the stomach.

According to Arval fleet and road safety manager Tracey Scarr, the trials have revealed clear improvements in posture with a reduction in back pain.

“No-one wants the device taken out – in fact they all want more for their partners and child seats,” she said.

CG-Lock’s own figures claim that 75% of users report less back pain while almost 15% say the pain has disappeared altogether.

Arval is now considering whether to offer the device at a subsidised rate to all employees or whether it buys a certain number which are provided to those most in need, such as expectant mothers.

“We might also extend the trial to 50-60 drivers,” Scarr added.

The CG-Lock trials are just part of the ongoing activity carried out by Driving for Better Business champion and Fleet News safety award winner Arval.

“We will trial any safety products to see if they work because road safety is a lifelong campaign. You have to constantly find new tools and changes to policy,” Scarr said.

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