Systems and procedures keep us safe

When it comes to the value of following systems and procedures, Farmlands’ driver Richard Kuklinski puts it simply – “they’re there to keep us safe in our work environment so we go home to our families at the end of each shift”.

"Procedures are put there to take the guesswork out of our jobs and give us clear instructions and understanding on how to do our job safely," adds Richard.

“If procedures are not followed it is likely the result will be an accident or an incident. That presents the opportunity for unnecessary harm to be caused to yourself or others. We also need to consider the negative impact an incident has on others in the company, to the customer that we are delivering to - and potential loss of work to the company that we are working for.”

While it seems that the company has more than its fair share of procedures to follow – they have all been developed over a long time as the tried and tested best practice for the fuel delivery industry.

They are also an important element in PFH securing contracts – that we have clear procedures and we follow them, says PFH’s General Manager, Matt Horan.

“Our procedures are constantly evolving,” explains Matt. “PFH values feedback from our front line staff. If anyone thinks a procedure can be done better or more safely – they should tell their manager. Our health and safety team has representatives from right across the company and the country. That team meets quarterly to discuss improvements to our procedures.”

Every accident or incident such as a fuel mix can usually be attributed to someone not following our procedures. The company’s veteran drivers play a really important role in setting good habits for the newer drivers joining the company and learning our procedures.

“There’s no room for the ‘she’ll be right attitude’,” says Matt. “We are a large fleet and our clients expect consistently high performance standards right across the board. Whether you are a new driver or an old hand, read up and be totally familiar with our operating procedures – and then ask yourself if you are following them correctly.”