Only a third of businesses doing basic grey fleet checks, says TTC

TTC Group is calling on businesses to urgently review their grey fleet compliance as new research reveals just one third (33%) monitor the status of their employees’ drivers’ licences.

The training expert fears that by failing to carry out the most basic driver validation checks, companies are placing their drivers, other road users and their business reputation in serious danger.

In its new white paper ‘Managing Grey Fleet Risk the Easy Way’, TTC explores how businesses can help reduce the risk associated with employees driving their own vehicles for work.

According to TTC research, basic checks are not being carried out, including verifying a valid MOT, insurance, and tax.

Results highlight that almost one-in-five businesses (18%) never make these checks, just over a third (37%) check when new employees join the business, and only one-in-three (33%) check these essentials regularly.

David Marsh, CEO of TTC Group, said: “Resources are stretched for many businesses so it is understandable that even the most willing companies may struggle to keep abreast of regular checks and training.

“However, with approximately 14 million grey fleet drivers on UK roads, the absence of training, appropriate insurance and roadworthy vehicles is putting a significant number of road users at risk.

“Add to this the business risk associated with any collision, conviction, or driving ban and the knock-on impact of internal resources being stretched, and it is clear to see the pressing need for businesses to get on top of their grey fleets.”

Marsh continued: “There’s no doubt that well-managed, grey fleets can safely complement a regular corporate fleet, but there are a multitude of compounding challenges when it comes to staying on top of grey fleet checks and training.

“When we asked fleet managers and those responsible for overseeing company vehicles why they struggled with maintaining compliance on grey fleets, the common hurdles cited included outdated systems, a lack of knowledge and a lack of available time.

“Nevertheless, if an employee is driving their own vehicle for work purposes, the onus of safety is ultimately on the employer.

“We hope this white paper will help businesses to understand the obligations and challenges grey fleets present and provide some useful insight on how to eradicate the grey areas of grey fleets once and for all.”