Wavin Ireland has introduced a new safe driving policy for its staff which includes prohibiting the use of hands free technology while driving. Based in Balbriggan, County Dublin Wavin has been in Ireland for over 60 years. It is a member of the Wavin Group – the world leader in plastic pipe systems for residential, non-residential and civil engineering projects.
Commenting on the initiative Michael O’Donohoe, Wavin National Director for Ireland (pictured) said; “At Wavin safety is fundamental and part of our DNA, and while the use of a hands-free phone while driving is not illegal in Ireland it is best practice to avoid doing so in terms of safe driving. In Ireland we have adopted the Distracted Driving Policy introduced throughout the Wavin Group and its parent company Orbia. We believe that while using hands-free technology is beneficial and productive for ours sales and technical staff who travel regularly in the service of our customers, it can only be used safely when a person has stopped driving.”
It is now part of the Wavin health and safety policy to reduce the driving risks its employees face and create by making voice calls while conducting company business.
“It is important that our customers, suppliers and partners are aware of the company policy so that they understand why calls may not be answered immediately,” added Michael.
“We are encouraging our stockists to make use of our Merchant Online Shop which provides an easy and quick way to manage orders for Wavin products without having to call or email. The Wavin Online Shop can be used at any time that suits the merchant, 24/7 from a desktop or mobile. This will greatly enhance their productivity when ordering from us.”
The ground rules of the Wavin Distracted Driving Policy to avoid using hands-free when driving include: recording a voicemail greeting that tells callers that the person may be driving and cannot take their call; planning journeys that include rest stops to check messages and return calls; pulling over and parking a vehicle in a safe location if a call must be made or received.
“There is considerable evidence to show that if you drive and use a mobile phone (hand-held or hands-free) it will hinder your driving. Some studies have found that you are four times more likely to have a crash if you use a mobile phone when you are driving, We believe that our Distracted Driving Policy will enhance the safety of our staff and are pleased that it has been welcomed widely within the company. Over the last decade, leading companies have taken decisive steps to eliminate distracted driving risks associated with their businesses. At Wavin we join that effort,” he concluded.