When winter sets in across the UK, those driving for work face serious challenges to keep the wheels of commerce turning. From icy roads to limited visibility, driving conditions can quickly deteriorate, putting both drivers and vehicles to the test. Whether you’re in a van, LGV or part of a fleet, following the right winter driving safety tips for employees isn’t just about keeping your vehicle running, it’s about ensuring everyone arrives home safely.
At R3 Road Risk Reduction, we’re committed to making UK roads safer. Here’s our practical winter maintenance guide to help you prepare yourself and your work vehicle for the colder months.
1. Winter vehicle checks for employees and fleet drivers
Routine checks are always important, but in winter, they become critical. Cold weather amplifies existing issues and creates new ones, so be sure to inspect:
- Tyres: The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but 3mm offers better grip in wet and icy conditions. Also, check pressures as low temperatures can lower them
- Battery: Batteries work harder in cold weather. Test yours, especially if it’s more than three years old
- Lights: Ensure all external lights are clean and fully functional
- Wipers and screen wash: Replace worn blades and use winter-grade screen wash to prevent freezing
- Antifreeze and coolant: Check levels and top up with the right mix to avoid engine damage if coolant is frozen
- Brakes: Get them checked by a professional. Winter roads demand reliable, responsive braking
For drivers of gritters, LGVs and other commercial vehicles, pre-shift inspections are even more important. Many issues can be prevented through structured winter service vehicle training.
Don’t wait until something fails. Proactive maintenance can save time, money and lives.
2. Stocking your vehicle: Winter essentials for employees and fleet drivers
If your vehicle breaks down or gets stuck, especially in remote areas, an emergency kit can make all the difference. For anyone following winter driving safety tips for employees, these items are essential:
- Ice scraper and de-icer – keep windscreens clear for safe visibility
- High-vis vest – vital if you need to exit your vehicle near traffic
- Blanket and extra warm clothing – helps prevent hypothermia if stranded
- Small shovel – to dig out of snow or slush
- Torch with spare batteries – essential for breakdowns in low light
- First aid kit – for treating minor injuries
- Power bank for phones – stay connected in emergencies
- Non-perishable snacks and water – energy and hydration during delays
- Warning triangle – alert other drivers if your vehicle is stationary
Think of this kit as your winter lifeline. It’s about being prepared, not paranoid and it’s something we cover in our winter driving awareness courses.
3. Driver preparation: Skill, mindset, and awareness
Even a well-maintained vehicle can’t compensate for poor driving decisions. Winter conditions demand extra care and alertness. As part of your winter driving safety tips for employees, remind yourself or your drivers to:
- Drive smoothly, avoid sharp steering, hard braking, or quick acceleration
- Slow down and increase stopping distances by as much as 10 times in snow and ice
- Use dipped headlights in rain, fog, or snow, don’t rely solely on Auto-on settings
- Watch for black ice, especially early in the morning or late at night
- Plan routes in advance, prioritising main and gritted roads
Investing in seasonal driver training can help your team build confidence and improve their winter driving techniques. Courses such as skid avoidance winter training and winter service vehicle training give drivers the practical skills to stay safe and keep vehicles moving, despite the conditions.
4. Stay informed: Winter journey planning for employees and fleet drivers
Good planning can prevent a bad day on the road. Before every journey, especially in winter:
- Check weather forecasts the Met Office provides accurate, up-to-date warnings
- Review traffic conditions and road closures before setting off
- Confirm your vehicle is serviced and up to date with maintenance schedules
- Complete pre-shift checks to spot and address potential safety issues early
For fleet managers, implementing a winter driving policy is essential. This should outline driver expectations and procedures during adverse weather, including:
- Contact details for emergencies
- Breakdown instructions
- Guidance on assessing whether it’s safe to travel
Clear communication between managers and drivers is essential, especially in extreme winter weather. Our winter fleet driving preparation courses can help ensure your policies and driver training are aligned for maximum safety.
5. Invest in training: The smartest winter safety decision
Winter adds complexity to already demanding driving roles. That’s why up-to-date training isn’t just a box-ticking exercise, it’s a practical safety measure that helps put winter driving safety tips for employees into action.
At R3 Road Risk Reduction, we specialise in:
- CPC periodic training (Hands-on, practical courses with a speciality for gritter drivers)
- Hands-on winter driving awareness courses
- Skid and collision avoidance
- Fleet and work vehicle safety training
- Vehicle walkaround checks and defect reporting
Ongoing education builds driver confidence, reduces risk, and ensures compliance with legal and safety standards, all while protecting your people and your business. If you’re serious about keeping drivers safe this winter, now is the time to get them trained.
Final thought: Don’t leave winter safety to chance
Winter will be here before you know it, so why wait to prepare?
A few simple actions now can prevent accidents, reduce breakdowns, and keep your drivers safe through the coldest months. Whether you manage a fleet or drive for work yourself, taking responsibility for winter driving safety tips for employees isn’t optional; it’s essential.
At R3 Road Risk Reduction, we work with organisations across the UK to deliver practical, hands-on training that makes a measurable difference on the road. From winter driving awareness courses to fleet safety programmes, we’ll help your drivers stay confident, compliant, and in control this winter.
Contact us today to discuss tailored training and support.
Drive safe. Be prepared.