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| Deirdre Sinnott McFeat, Senior Inspector, Health and Safety Authority. |
Driving for work remains one of the most serious occupational safety risks in Ireland, writes Brian Byrne. New research highlighted by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has shown that work-related journeys account for a significant share of road deaths and serious injuries.
Presenting findings at a Driving for Work seminar focused on light commercial vehicles, the RSA revealed that between 2021 and 2025, 12% of drivers killed on Irish roads were driving for work. One in four drivers involved in fatal collisions, and 19% of those involved in serious injury collisions – a total of 1,502 drivers – were also on work-related trips.
The research highlighted worrying levels of speeding and mobile phone use among light goods vehicle drivers, particularly on urban roads, with many drivers reporting feeling pressured by work demands to take risks.
RSA Director Michael Rowland said organisations operating van fleets must put road safety at the heart of their operations, with clear policies, training, proper vehicle maintenance and a culture where safety comes before commercial pressures. Senior Inspector Deirdre Sinnott McFeat of the Health and Safety Authority added that employers have a “vital role” in preventing deaths and serious injuries by ensuring effective driving-for-work policies.
The Driving for Work programme is a joint initiative of the RSA, the Health and Safety Authority and An Garda Síochána to support employers in managing occupational road risk.
