Employers could be overlooking a driver distraction risk created by smartwatches linked to workplace technology, Fleet Specialist warns.
Wearable tech should now form part of managing driver distraction, particularly where smartwatches are connected to company smartphones, work email accounts and workplace messaging apps.
Messages, emails, calendar reminders and other notifications can all be delivered directly to a driver’s wrist, potentially taking their attention away from the road even when their mobile phone remains untouched.
“A vibrating watch displaying a message, email or other alert may seem less intrusive than a mobile phone, but it can still divert a driver’s attention at a critical moment.”
A review their fleet and occupational road risk policies to ensure wearable technology is specifically addressed, rather than assuming existing rules on mobile phone use are sufficient. This should include considering whether smartwatch notifications need to be disabled while driving, making sure employees understand the distraction risks associated with wearable devices and setting clear expectations around what is and is not acceptable behind the wheel.
Source: Fleet Operations