04 November 2024
Once fleet operators have established a strong foundation with FORS Bronze accreditation, the next step is achieving Silver. FORS Silver accreditation builds upon the essential safety and compliance standards set at Bronze by introducing advanced requirements, particularly in visibility, environmental impact, and alignment with Construction Logistics and Community Safety (CLOCS) standards. For fleet operators and industry partners like Dun-Bri Group, Silver represents a commitment to heightened safety and sustainability, setting operators apart in competitive and urban markets.
What Is FORS Silver Accreditation?
FORS Silver accreditation is a mid-level certification that requires operators to demonstrate a deeper commitment to road safety, environmental responsibility, and operational efficiency. One of the key focuses of Silver is urban fleet safety, making it especially relevant for fleets operating in high-traffic areas or on construction sites. To achieve Silver, operators must implement enhanced safety features, such as improved vehicle visibility equipment, driver training on road-sharing with vulnerable road users, and adherence to CLOCS standards.
Key Requirements of Silver Accreditation
To progress from Bronze to Silver, fleet operators need to meet a series of additional criteria, including:
Enhanced Vehicle Safety Systems: Silver accreditation requires fleet operators to equip vehicles with advanced safety features to improve visibility and reduce blind spots. This can include side cameras, sensors, audible alarms, and warning signage—particularly beneficial for vehicles operating in crowded or urban areas where pedestrians and cyclists are present.
Driver Safety and Awareness Training: Silver-level operators must ensure that drivers receive training on urban safety, especially on sharing the road with vulnerable users like cyclists and pedestrians. Training programs often cover situational awareness, defensive driving techniques, and strategies for navigating busy urban environments safely.
Environmental and Operational Impact Management: Like Bronze, Silver also focuses on environmental responsibility, with added emphasis on emissions reduction and fuel efficiency. Fleet operators are encouraged to adopt eco-friendly driving techniques and conduct emissions checks regularly. Silver accreditation also requires operators to monitor fuel usage, providing data to support ongoing efficiency improvements.
Alignment with CLOCS Standards: One of the defining aspects of FORS Silver is alignment with CLOCS standards, which are designed to improve road safety around construction sites. CLOCS standards include specific requirements for vehicle safety, driver training, and operational practices that enhance the protection of vulnerable road users.
Data Reporting and Analysis: Silver accreditation also requires a higher level of data collection and analysis. Fleet operators must track key performance metrics, such as fuel usage, emissions, and safety incidents, to demonstrate continuous improvement and accountability.
How Dun-Bri Group Supports FORS Silver Compliance
At Dun-Bri Group, we offer a range of products specifically designed to meet FORS Silver standards and improve urban fleet safety. Our product line-up includes advanced vehicle camera systems, sensors, and audible alarms that can be customized to suit various vehicle types and operational needs. As an official distributor of Hikvision DVS kits, we provide solutions that can enhance vehicle visibility and driver awareness, helping fleet operators meet Silver-level requirements with ease.
For instance, our side camera and sensor kits can provide drivers with a clearer view of their surroundings, reducing blind spots and increasing overall safety. Additionally, our audible warning systems alert pedestrians and cyclists when a vehicle is turning or reversing, an essential feature for urban and construction fleets.
Benefits of Achieving FORS Silver Accreditation
- Increased Safety for Urban Operations: With advanced safety features, Silver-level operators are better equipped to prevent accidents, particularly in busy urban areas or near construction sites.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: By tracking and improving fuel efficiency, Silver-accredited fleets contribute to lower emissions and reduced operational costs, aligning with broader environmental goals.
- Enhanced Market Reputation: Achieving Silver shows clients and regulators that a company is committed to road safety and environmental responsibility, setting it apart in competitive markets.
- Foundation for FORS Gold: Silver is a necessary step toward FORS Gold, which focuses on continuous improvement and leadership in fleet safety and sustainability.
Steps to Achieve FORS Silver Accreditation
If you’re ready to move from Bronze to Silver, here are some steps to guide your journey:
- Implement Enhanced Vehicle Safety Systems: Equip your fleet with side cameras, sensors, and audible alarms to meet visibility and safety requirements.
- Train Drivers on Urban Safety: Ensure all drivers complete training that covers road-sharing with vulnerable users, situational awareness, and urban navigation.
- Monitor Environmental Data: Begin tracking fuel usage, emissions, and other environmental data to demonstrate compliance with Silver-level standards.
- Partner with Trusted Suppliers: Work with reliable suppliers like Dun-Bri Group to source safety systems and vehicle lighting that meets FORS Silver standards and supports continuous improvement.
Conclusion
Achieving FORS Silver accreditation is a significant milestone for fleet operators, signifying a commitment to advanced safety measures, environmental responsibility, and compliance with industry standards. At Dun-Bri Group, we support fleet operators on their journey to Silver by offering high-quality, FORS-compliant products that enhance safety and operational efficiency.
For more information on how Dun-Bri Group can help you achieve FORS Silver accreditation, reach out to our team. We’re ready to support your commitment to safer and more sustainable fleet operations.