Fleet Safety Guidelines

Fleet safety programs have become increasingly important for businesses managing vehicles of any size. Establishing a clear, written safety program is essential to reducing risk. Vehicle-related incidents continue to be a leading cause of workplace injuries and fatalities across industries in Ontario. Within many organizations, some of the most significant claims have stemmed from preventable vehicle accidents—often years after the original policies or procedures were put in place.

MEARIE has developed this Fleet Safety Program Resource to support organizations in building effective safety strategies. This resource includes:

• An overview of vehicle-related claims and the importance of proactive safety planning
• Program Fundamentals – Key components such as driver policies, vehicle use guidelines, and regulatory compliance
• Driver Safety and Management – Best practices for driver selection, training, and performance monitoring
• Maintenance and Inspection – Standards for vehicle upkeep to reduce mechanical failures and downtime
• Incident Response – Guidance on accident reporting, investigation, and corrective actions
• Additional best practices, including insurance considerations and public safety communication
• A discussion on the role of technology in monitoring driver behaviour, predictive maintenance, and compliance tracking

When developing a fleet safety program, the primary goal is to manage risk effectively while promoting a culture of safety across all aspects of vehicle operations. Program development can become increasingly complex, particularly when coordinating across departments or responding to regulatory changes. In this context, it is essential to understand the risks involved and to evaluate potential liabilities and long-term costs.

Ensuring your program avoids gaps in safety procedures and unclear responsibilities is crucial.

At The MEARIE Group, we remain committed to providing the most up-to-date insights on risk management and industry best practices. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out.