Safe and Sustainable Fleet Management with Data Analytics and Training

Abstract

In scores of vehicle fleets, telematic tracking systems provide fleet managers with information regarding energy consumption, the obedience of safety regulations and driver performance. For a University’s Facilities Management (FM) Fleet to take the next steps towards an elevated Sustainable Fleet accreditation and overall team performance, the management has recognized the importance of effective energy and safety tracking methods combined with data analytics and a comprehensive systems analysis in order to aid the reinforcement, training and maintenance of safe and sustainable driving practices by fleet drivers. This paper outlines the design of a unique safety and eco-driving training program that will prompt University FM drivers to reflect on, educate and develop mindful driving habits which reduce environmental impact, cost and risk. We analyzed historical driver behavior data, including idling time, harsh acceleration, crash incident details, resulting in the identification of risk factors and areas for significant improvement. Educational aspects of the training program were influenced by focus groups, interviews administered with industry experts, and professional fleet training modules. The efficacy of the customized training program has been assessed through a statistical evaluation of telematic data collected before and after the training program was delivered. The results indicate that agency-specific mindful driving training was statistically significant in improving five of the six behavioral metrics measured - idling time, seat belt usage, speeding, hard acceleration, and hard braking - compared to the control group.