The idea is that the presence of companies will help drive home the message of the importance of road safety for staff, suppliers, customers and the community at large. It will also offer the opportunity to launch new initiatives like revised road safety rules and driver training programmes.

‘Not a drop, Not a drag’ is this year’s theme, and it brings to the fore the message that drivers should avoid alcohol and drugs at any cost when they are driving. The participating companies have the option of promoting this or any theme of their choice for the duration of the campaign.

The number of casualties in 2007 from road accidents due to drunk or drug-related rash driving was 15,935 in the UK alone. Brake believes this is a huge number for companies to seriously think about, given the free availability of drugs and alcohol in the market. The charity also brings to light the fact that impaired driving the morning after can be hazardous for company drivers. For advice on the needs of health & safety training for your organisation, click on IOSH Training.

Katie Shephard, Fundraising Manager at Brake, said that the Road Safety Week is a great opportunity for companies to get involved and do their share in promoting safe driving practices as well as in building their own image amongst customers, workers and in the community. Brake will be there to guide companies on how best they can get involved in the campaign.