April 2022

How can we better prevent HGV bridge strikes?

HGV bridge strikes are on the increase. 90% of all bridge strikes are due to drivers using a car SATNAV or phone apps such as Google, Apple and Waze maps. These have no height route calculation capability. As such, they are absolutely NOT suitable for HGV drivers when route planning!

MRK is a modern, forward thinking employer - we strive to supply our drivers with all the tools and knowledge they could ever need to stay safe on the roads. As part of our ongoing driver training program, we thought the timing was right to delve a little more in to one of the most dangerous aspects of the job - avoiding low bridges.

We all can take better steps to ensure the safest possible journey. As Network Rails awareness campaign says: "wise up, size up", in an effort to educate drivers to check their vehicle heights before setting off. There are many other great tips and guides out there, so we decided with the input from our drivers to compile our own. Here are just some of the simple ways we go about route safe planning:

Checking the vehicle and trailer height during walk around checks (this would include levelling off the suspension to ensure the height will be accurate as displayed).
Making a note of the vehicle height in other measurement formats (e.g. metres to feet).
Checking and adjusting your vehicle height indicator in the cab as a visual reminder. (This is also a legal requirement).
Using Truck Nav - Our entire Iveco fleet is equipped with the latest built-in TomTom TruckNav technology.
Taking note of alternative routes on the Truck Nav.
Using/listening to Traffic Announcements (TA) on the radio.
Getting advice in unforeseen circumstances. If you are taken off route due to an unplanned road closure (an accident for example), stop where safe to do so and ring the office so we can risk assess the new route required.
Double Decks - Making sure the EBS connection is properly connected and functioning for double deck trailers. Vitally important!

In summary, while some of these measures seem fairly obvious - accidents can and are still happening on a frighteningly regular basis around the country. Ongoing training and refreshers can help greatly in tackling this serious problem. Ultimately, it is our responsibility as an employer to continually educate and work with our drivers.

Lets all plan ahead, stay alert and stay safe on the roads.