EV Cargo was proud to be represented at this year’s prestigious Health & Safety Event by Andrew Mawson, Head of Compliance and Risk.
Andrew took the stage in the Driver Safety Theatre, joining a panel of industry experts for a discussion titled: “Expert Insights to Unlock an Effective Driver Safety Culture.”
The panel explored the complex and evolving landscape of driver risk management, delving into the core competencies required not just by drivers, but also by driver safety managers and business leaders.
Andrew brought to the fore a vital and often overlooked aspect of road safety: the person behind the wheel.
His message was simple, yet powerful: Drivers, whether full-time or agency, are people first. A culture of genuine care and communication must be at the heart of any successful safety strategy.
Key themes Andrew highlighted included:
- The importance of supporting driver mental health
- Ensuring driver roadworthiness, beyond the vehicle checks
- Encouraging open conversations, not just asking “How are you?” but truly asking, “How are you really?”
These small but sincere actions can make the difference between silence and a conversation that could prevent an incident before it happens.
Andrew commented “Driver safety doesn’t start with the vehicle, it starts with the individual. We need to build a culture where drivers feel seen, supported and empowered to speak openly about their wellbeing. When we treat drivers as people first, we don’t just reduce risk, we create a safer, more respectful industry.”
Andrew’s insights served as a reminder that the foundation of driver safety lies not only in compliance and training, but in empathy and appreciation.
At EV Cargo, we’re committed to building a workplace where drivers feel seen, heard and valued, because safety starts with people.
Andrew left the audience with a profound thought, next time you hand over the keys, remember:
“The person you are giving the keys to is one of you.”
