The Spotless/Downer Group was awarded the 2021 Fleet Safety Award at AfMA’s Annual Networking Dinner & Fleet Awards Ceremony in May, according to an AfMA news release. 

The award comes as the Spotless/Downer Group team has standardized their fleet and implemented the use of telematics for improved driver behavior.

“Our most successful outcome has been standardisation of the fleet and all the safety advantages that go with that,” Spotless’ Fleet Coordinator Matthew Ogilvie said. “We’ve been able to grab real data that has significantly changed our fleet going forward and we’ve been able to introduce a zero-harm culture that has been implemented from our executive team down.”

Beyond the improvement in overall driver behavior and safety, their work has also resulted in financial savings for the organization.

Spotless/Downer Group has reduced its fuel spend by 7% across its fleet and improved tire life by around 14%, with about 600-700 vehicles in their fleet. Matthew also said that they've instituted a good driver program and driver education initiatives. 

Matthew urged other organizations that are thinking about standardizing their vehicles to make the effort. “It does come at a cost and you will need support from your executive team – however the rewards are great,” Matthew said. “You end up with some cost savings along the way and a much safer fleet so that everybody gets home at the end of the day.”