Ford of Britain managing director Andy Barratt is spotlighting the health and safety responsibilities of fleets as he takes on the role of chairman at IAM RoadSmart.
Barratt, who assumed the position on 1 April 2019 from Ken Kier OBE, is launching a revamped IAM RoadSmart Manifesto that highlights seven areas that could play a key role in reducing the number of people killed and injured on UK roads – including recognition of the importance of road risk management among fleet operators.
As such, the Manifesto acknowledges the importance of driving to the economy and business, which it says should be seen as a core skill for business and a health and safety responsibility for all organisations in the public and private sector.
As well as recognising the importance of fleet safety, IAM RoadSmart’s Manifesto – which will form the basis of a submission from IAM RoadSmart to the Transport Committee inquiry into road safety – covers all areas of road safety, from immediate post-test drivers and riders into older age. This includes underlining the importance of periodic refresher courses. It also includes extending driver rehabilitation after a conviction for a wider variety of motoring convictions.
And the Manifesto also highlights the changing world of new technology as the switch to autonomous and connected vehicles continues to gather pace.
Barratt brings almost four decades of experience at the Ford Motor Company where he started as an apprentice and has been managing director of Ford of Britain since 2015.
Barratt said: “In my roles at Ford, developing safe vehicles is the number one priority. In taking the chair of IAM RoadSmart, my focus will be to ensure that human factors are high on the road safety agenda in order to reduce the number of people killed and seriously injured on roads in the UK.
“As a cyclist, driver and pedestrian I’ve been pleased to lead Ford’s ‘Share the Road’ initiatives, encouraging cooperation and understanding between road users. As a motor industry representative chairing IAM RoadSmart, I believe that we can continue to find common ground, cooperation and practical ways forward to make sure that real change happens – with vehicle makers, politicians, the media, and with all road users.”
Mike Quinton, IAM RoadSmart chief executive officer, said: “I am delighted that we have attracted someone of the calibre, standing and seniority in the UK automotive industry as Andy to the role of Chairman.
“I am confident his knowledge and contacts will be invaluable in driving us forward and I look forward to drawing on his skills and leadership experience.”
