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Policy - Driver's Roles and Responsibilities

Section: Human Resource Policies 
Policy Owner: Ignition633 Ministries Nigeria Human Resources 
Policy Name: Driver's Roles and Responsibilities 
Origination Date: August 2024 

Purpose
This policy promotes adherence to traffic laws, vehicle maintenance protocols, and safety practices while emphasizing professionalism and customer service. By setting these guidelines, the policy helps to minimize risks, enhance operational effectiveness, and uphold high standards of performance and accountability in all driving activities.

Scope
The Driver Roles and Responsibilities Policy scope encompasses all aspects of a driver’s duties within the ministry, including adherence to traffic regulations, vehicle maintenance, safety protocols, and customer service standards. It applies to all individuals operating ministry vehicles, whether for local or long-distance transportation, and covers responsibilities such as conducting regular vehicle inspections, maintaining accurate logs, managing fuel consumption, and responding effectively to emergencies. 

Definition
The role of a Driver is to operate a vehicle safely and efficiently to transport passengers, goods, or materials from one location to another.
Drivers' Responsibilities include prioritizing safety and strictly adhering to traffic laws and regulations. This includes obeying speed limits, using signals when turning, and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles. Additionally, drivers are responsible for keeping the vehicle clean and presentable inside and out. 

Driver's Roles and Responsibilities
Safe Operation of the Vehicle
A driver's primary responsibility is to operate the vehicle safely and responsibly, adhering to all traffic laws and regulations. This includes obeying speed limits, using turn signals, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, and following traffic signs and signals.

Defensive Driving
A driver should practice defensive driving techniques to anticipate and avoid potential hazards on the road. This involves staying alert, constantly scanning the road, and being prepared to react to unexpected situations.

Vehicle Maintenance
The driver ensures the vehicle is properly maintained and in good working condition. Regularly checking tire pressure, brakes, lights, and fluid levels and scheduling routine maintenance or repairs are essential for safe and efficient driving (Use the ministry-provided vehicle inspection form to ensure that vehicles are properly maintained).

Passenger and Goods Safety
The driver is responsible for the passenger's safety and the goods they are transporting. This involves ensuring that passengers are properly seated and wearing seat belts, securing cargo appropriately to prevent shifting or falling, and being mindful of any special requirements or considerations.

Navigation and Route Planning
Drivers are responsible for planning their routes, using maps or navigation systems to reach their destinations efficiently. This includes considering traffic conditions, road closures, and alternative routes when necessary.

Professional Conduct
Staff and truck drivers have additional responsibilities, such as maintaining a professional appearance, being courteous to passengers or clients, and following specific regulations.

Awareness of Road Conditions
A responsible driver stays informed about current road conditions and weather forecasts. Awareness of potential hazards like construction zones, icy roads, or heavy traffic enables drivers to make informed decisions.

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This policy will be reviewed annually and is subject to change. Any changes will be communicated to all employees promptly. 

For any questions or further assistance regarding this policy, employees should contact the HR department at hr.nigeria@ignition633.org.