Barnes puts HGV security in the spotlight
With 89 per cent of all goods transported by land moved directly by an HGV on the road, such a vital industry deserves the support it needs to thrive, according to Gareth Broughton, operations manager at logistics provider Barnes – with those employed by the sector able to enjoy security and safety while they carry out deliveries.
“Over the last year, steps have been taken to improve security at rest points so as to keep drivers and their vehicles safe from theft, such as the government’s £100 million investment in roadside facilities,” said Gareth.
“However, there are still a number of shortcomings when it comes to HGV security provision that must be addressed urgently so that we can improve working conditions for drivers…
Every year, road freight theft costs the UK economy £250 million, and this is largely because security at a number of rest points is inadequate, with drivers all too often left vulnerable to vehicle security breaches.”
One of the most significant issues drivers face when it comes to security, says Gareth, is that there simply aren’t enough secure parking sites at rest points, with space often at a premium.
“When drivers manage to get a space at a rest point, there are frequently little to no security patrols or effective CCTV, which leaves them neglected and unsafe,” he continued.
“An insecure resting site can lead to anxiety among drivers, which will ultimately affect their sleep and recuperation and in turn, their capacity to drive safely and carry out their role to the best of their ability, the following day.
“Without secure spaces, drivers are left to find a rest point that’s unmonitored which subsequently heightens the threat of freight theft and the safety risk.
“Indeed, there has been a significant increase in curtains being cut on HGVs which, of course, causes expense and delays to deliveries which affects business operations and supply chain efficiency.”
An obvious starting point when it comes to improving HGV security measures is to introduce more secure rest points, he says, to allow drivers the chance to gain a peaceful sleep that leaves them refreshed and ready to make safe and timely deliveries.
“We also need to see more effective CCTV at roadside facilities, with vigilant monitoring from rest point staff. This should be complemented by having perimeter fencing to deter potential thieves from accessing the rest point and parked vehicles.
“An increase in the presence of security guards patrolling the site is also vital to ensure that there’s a further layer of deterrence to trespassers, as well as better all-round facilities so that drivers can enjoy a better recovery after a long day behind the wheel.”
The safety of Barnes’ drivers is of paramount importance, says Gareth, and the company is committed to equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to keep safe while they’re out on the road.
“We train our drivers so that they understand their responsibilities and, equally, what they need to be looking out for when making decisions on where to park,” he continued.
“Drivers are asked to be alert to threats and report any concerns they may have regarding suspicious activity to the police or our traffic office as soon as it is safe to do so.
“It’s also imperative that their phones are fully charged and in an area of good signal so as to ensure that they’re able to raise the alarm if an emergency situation should arise.
“In addition, when leaving the cab, our drivers are told to always lock the doors and keep their vehicle keys on them, while also making sure they park with the loading doors close to another vehicle or wall.
“To ensure that our road haulage team enjoy the best possible experience while they’re making vital deliveries, we’ve also set up an account with Snap Parking, which enables drivers to find a safe and secure rest point, while also guaranteeing them a parking space without having to pay.”
Enhancing vehicle security measures at rest points would make it far more difficult for opportunist theft to occur, says Gareth – and consequently prevent any delays to the driver, which would reassure the customer that their products will arrive complete, without interference, on time and not damaged.
“When businesses and logistics providers know that their vehicles and cargo are protected at rest points, they can gain confidence in the entire transportation process. This confidence translates into smoother operations, more efficient planning, and improved partnerships between different supply chain stakeholders,” he said.
“Ultimately, drivers perform vital, skilled work every day that keeps our economy moving and their welfare should be prioritised. As such, improving provisions at roadside facilities is essential so that we can keep themselves and their vehicles safe and secure.”
