Consider the following; Driver 'X' is on the road a lot of the time, and operates under steady pressure to meet targets. As a result, 'X' feels the need to rush frequently. Rushing uses more fuel, promotes wear & tear, and increases the likelihood of crashing.
This person's operating style has a direct impact on the businesses Triple Bottom Line. If we look in a little more detail, we can see that something as simple as rushing impacts on the TBL in the following ways;
Rushing uses more fuel, produces more toxic gases, particulates and noise. The increased wear & tear on the vehicle will require more frequent replacement of consumable items such as tyres, brakes, clutches and lubricants.
In all of the instances noted above, a clear link can be seen between both the financial & environmental factors. However, what about the social or human impact of rushing?
Drivers who feel the need to rush are usually more stressed than drivers who don't feel that way. Stressed drivers tend to be more aggressive, competitive and even combative on the roads. Stress causes higher blood pressure which in turn is linked to heart disease and stroke.
Drivers who operate under pressure often think more about their own needs when driving, than the needs of others. They will be less likely to "let someone in" a socially desirable trait, and more likely to "keep someone out", or, "rush yellow lights" both dangerous habits to develop.
Ask yourself this question; If driver 'X' was in a vehicle with your company name on the side, how would you feel about 50 or 100 of these drivers representing you or your shareholders? Your employees' observable behaviour may well be in considerable conflict with your organisation's values.
It goes without saying that crashing costs money. Lost time, medical expenses, vehicle repairs & depreciation are all obvious costs associated with crashing. But what about the hidden costs?
Workcover premiums and vehicle insurance are tied to past performance. Crashing this year will have a direct effect on pushing up costs in the future.
Traffic accidents are the leading cause of death & serious injury in Australia. In 1993, the National Safety Council of Australia had calculated that each work related car crash cost the community $18,500.
Low Risk Drivers on the other hand tend towards 'Y'. That is, they tend not to rush, their overall travelling speeds are lower and their behaviour is demonstrably more socially desirable.
Low Risk Drivers are supportive and adaptive. They acknowledge the diversity of road users and consider the needs and weaknesses of others. They look for opportunities to "let people in", and adopt a collaborative rather than combative disposition. They drive more carefully, crash less, and are usually much less stressed. Sometimes, they choose not to drive at all if there is a better alternative.
Low Risk Drivers understand how their choices impact on the Triple Bottom Line - Financial, Environmental & Social. Not only do they understand the impact of their choices, they are motivated to make a difference.
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Triple Bottom Line
