KUALA LUMPUR: Monitoring and inspection systems for heavy vehicle drivers must be implemented and enforced to ensure they consistently meet the required standards, said a Universiti Teknologi Malaysia expert.
Automotive and transportation engineering expert, Dr Mohd Azman Abas, said this can be achieved through periodic checks of their knowledge, physical capabilities, and psychological state.
"Heavy vehicle drivers are a vital part of the transportation network, but the potential dangers they pose due to the size and weight of their vehicles are significant.
"Therefore, ensuring that these drivers meet the highest standards of safety is not only crucial for their well-being but for the safety of all road users," said the university's Automotive Development Centre (ADC) director.
Azman said several areas should be focused on, namely regular knowledge assessments; physical health monitoring; psychological and mental health checks; monitoring driving behaviour; strict enforcement and accountability; and creating a culture of safety.
For regular knowledge assessments, Azman said the drivers should undergo periodic refresher courses and tests to ensure they are updated on the latest road safety regulations, vehicle technologies, and best practices for handling emergencies.
"Training programmes can also include modules on defensive driving, fatigue management, and awareness of how their vehicles impact other road users."
Azman said the physical health of heavy vehicle drivers is crucial, as issues like poor vision, hearing problems, or chronic health conditions can compromise their ability to drive safely.
"Mandatory medical check-ups at regular intervals should be enforced to assess their fitness to operate heavy vehicles. Specific focus should be placed on conditions like sleep apnoea, which is common among truck drivers and can lead to fatigue-related accidents."
He said driving heavy vehicles is a high-pressure job that requires mental resilience.
"As such, stress, fatigue, or psychological issues can lead to impaired decision-making and risky behaviour on the road.
"Psychological evaluations should be part of routine checks, and drivers should have access to counselling or support programmes to address mental health concerns."
He added that advanced technologies like telematics systems can be used to monitor drivers' behaviour, including speed, braking patterns, and adherence to regulations.
"Real-time monitoring helps identify risky behaviours such as speeding or harsh braking, allowing authorities or employers to intervene and provide corrective measures."
Azman said rigorous routine roadside inspections should be conducted to verify adherence to regulations.
"This includes reviewing logbooks, rest periods, and ensuring drivers do not exceed maximum driving hours, which helps prevent fatigue-related accidents.
"Drivers who violate safety regulations should be subject to suitable penalties to emphasise the significance of following the rules."
Azman added that employers of heavy vehicle drivers and policymakers must collaborate to establish a culture where safety is prioritised over operational efficiency.
He said incentive programmes could be introduced to reward drivers with exemplary safety records, thereby fostering a positive attitude towards safe driving practices.
Meanwhile, in response to Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who recently said that the number of fatal accidents and death cases in the country has not decreased, with the majority of the fatalities being motorcyclists accounting for nearly 65 per cent, Azman said it could be attributed to several interrelated factors.
"Many drivers and riders overestimate their skills, believing they can handle challenging situations on the road, but this misplaced confidence often leads to accidents. This ignorance stems from a lack of proper training and minimal awareness of road safety," he said.