Working as a Courier? Here are Risks you NEED to be Aware of!
Couriers are never in one place for too long and your day to day work involves the transport of documents and packages for individuals, businesses and government agencies. You provide rapid and direct delivery and the demand for couriers is always increasing as companies get larger and rely more on efficient delivery. Of course, there are a number of risks that come with your work as a courier – let’s take a look at just some of the issues that you need to be aware of!
Risks for courier drivers
The nature of your work as a courier driver which sees you on the road most of the time means that there are a number of risks you need to contend with. Courier drivers typically operate small vehicles such as vans, cars or small trucks and your increased time on the road means that there are associated risks such as accidents or breakdowns. There is also the risk of theft of your vehicle or theft of the items that you are transporting. Also, there is the risk of harm to a third party either while you are in your vehicle or while you are delivering your items. Most importantly, courier drivers also need to consider their own personal safety when on the job.
Risk reduction tips for courier drivers
- Ensure that all employees have adequate training so they are fully aware of all safety protocols.
- Stock vehicles with first aid kits and check them on a regular basis.
- Keep an accurate record of deliveries so the business is aware of the movements of employees at all times.
- Do not carry cash or valuables on deliveries unless absolutely necessary.
- Carry a mobile telephone at all times so you and employees can be contactable.
- Avoid deliveries at night if possible and bring a torch to stay safe in poorly lit areas.
- Do not park in isolated areas and park as close as possible to the front entrance of the building.
- Have a safety system in place where employees contact another person when they arrive and leave a destination.
- Avoid back entrances and side doors.
Insurance for courier drivers
While there are steps you can take to lower the risks you face as a courier driver, there are times when the unexpected can happen. Luckily, you can ensure that you have insurance cover in place to protect against these scenarios. Insurance cover that courier drivers should consider include:
- Motor vehicle insurance
Motor vehicle insurance is one of the most obvious forms of cover that should be in place for courier drivers. The level of motor vehicle insurance that you require will depend on your specific circumstances but it’s important to remember that third party insurance is compulsory in Australia.
- Public liability insurance
Public liability insurance provides financial protection if you cause damage to property or injury to a third party as a result of your actions at work. All it would take is for a third party to trip over one of your parcels or for you to accidentally damage property while carrying out a delivery to find yourself involved in an expensive claim.
- Good in transit insurance
Goods in transit insurance covers you if items that you’re transporting from one location to another are lost, damaged or stolen.
- Personal accident and illness insurance
For courier drivers, finding yourself suddenly unable to work due to injury or illness can mean you have no way of earning an income. Personal accident and illness insurance means that you’ll continue to receive a portion of your income if an injury or illness means that you’re unable to work.
For more information about insurance for courier drivers, contact your insurance broker.