Builders Merchants Journal – BMJ Publishing to Builders Merchants and the UK merchanting industry for more than 95 years
Lafarge Aggregates & Concrete UK has retro-fitted blind spot mirrors on all its haulage fleet to improve road safety.
UK legislation requires all new vehicles to have these mirrors, designed to allow drivers to see below them right at the front of the truck, however, there is no legal requirement for retro-fitting to older vehicles.
Around 250 aggregate and asphalt trucks were retrofitted, with Lafarge liaising closely with hauliers to ensure a speedy and efficient turnaround.
Tony Plant, Lafarge fleet operations manager, said: “Everyone bought into the idea because it is a step forward in terms of road safety. There have been issues in the past where accidents have occurred with pedestrians stepping out in front of a truck and the driver not being able to see them.
“This mirror eliminates that blind spot.”
Dave Hull, owner-driver at DMH Transport said: “The new mirror is good because now you can see down directly in front of the truck. Previously you wouldn’t have been able to see that area unless you stood up in the cab and leaned over.
“It’s a major benefit for us drivers because there are instances where pedestrians cross in front of you.
“It’s made a big difference to our overall visibility range and I think the retrofit was a very good idea. I was happy to take part.”
