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Elis strengthens environmental and safety issues in its road fleet

HSE

Elis, formerly known as Berendsen, Europe’s one of the leading operators of linen, textile and well-being services has increased the safety and enhanced the fuel efficiency of its 750-strong fleet of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and light commercial vehicles (LCVs)

This has been achieved through the integration of telematics and video surveillance systems, with IP cameras provided by Axis Communications, the market leader in network video technology.

The cameras were installed by Axis’ partner ICanProve.IT and can record a full 360-degree view of the exterior and interior of vehicles at all times. This video footage has enhanced telematics data with visual information about driver behaviour. Conduct that either increase fuel consumption or was considered unsafe is now being eradicated with the installation resulting in a 12.7 per cent increase in fuel efficiency across the fleet and a decrease in driver related incidents by 58 per cent.

The video data is supplied by AXIS F44 and F41 rugged network video systems in the cab, alongside a combination of wide-angle cameras including the AXIS F1005-E and F1035 HD fisheye lenses.

“These are being utilised to monitor events both on and off the road, from incidents of dangerous driving to theft from a vehicle. This is helping drivers increase their road safety measures, drive with fuel efficiency in mind and combat false insurance claims,” said Elis.

Peter Kelly, group compliance and fleet manager at Elis, stated, “To help improve the fuel efficiency and safety of our fleet, we set strict targets regarding CO2 emissions, safety and compliance and management information. The reports that the system generates and sends to relevant managers now form the basis of driver debriefs, which has been vital in addressing these targets.”

Gavin Urtel, managing director at ICanProve.IT, noted, “When it comes to helping improve driver behaviour, managers can review footage with drivers to discuss exactly what caused the need for harsh breaking or acceleration, helping address issues in a positive way. Managers can also tailor training for each driver; one may struggle with fuel economy, whereas another might be found to brake harshly. Individual targets for improvement can then be agreed.”

Lucas Young, business development manager, transport at Axis Communications, commented, “The results from this installation are incontrovertible. In working with ICanProve.IT and Axis, Elis can be assured it is utilising best-in-class IP technology, which generates data that is useful and actionable.”