Groupama assesses fleet risk

by Richard Kilner

Story link: Groupama assesses fleet risk

Groupama Insurances has launched a fleet risk management programme following a review of its strategy for dealing with in-house risks.

Colin Silverman, Groupama’s Human Resources corporate manager, has stated that it is only proper that as a significant motor insurer, emphasising risk management and the health and safety of its employees and that Groupama’s in-house policy reflects these concerns.

A robust method for verifying the driving licences for those who drive as part of their job at the firm, regardless of whether it’s a company car or another vehicle, forms part of the programme. Half of the relevant employees (a total of over 230) have already been checked and all will have been by the end of 2007.

An online risk assessment programme that has recently been updated and improved called DriverMetrics will test drivers with questions specially designed to accurately reflect the degree of risk (if any) that driver might be subject to. Risk management specialists Peak Performance collaborated with Cranfield University to create the software.

Driver workshops and/or practical road driving training will be attended by staff that are identified as needing them, in accordance with the results of an in-depth analysis report.

Following the workshops/training drivers will be debriefed to make sure adequate progress has been achieved and to highlight any areas in which an employee might need further training.

Employees who have not had an eye test in the last year will be offered a free examination by Groupama.

Silverman believes that the extensive new programme will allow the firm to cut claims costs and improve the quality of the driving fleet ahead of the incoming corporate manslaughter laws that will come into effect in 2008.

Carbon emissions, security ratings and safety of vehicles are all being considered as potential factors when choosing vehicles.