How Brega Oil Uplifted Safety Practices in Hazardous Cargo Operations

Owning one of Libya’s largest fleets for transporting oil-related products and gas cylinders, Brega Oil Company recognises that even a small improvement in driver skills can significantly impact road safety nationwide. Acknowledging the limitations of their existing in-house training programmes, Brega partnered with Qabas to enhance the driving skills of their hazardous cargo vehicle operators.

The Situation

Transporting hazardous cargo requires specialised driving techniques due to the unique challenges associated with handling volatile materials. Brega’s fleet operates under demanding conditions where a single mistake can have serious consequences for both drivers and public safety. With numerous trucks on the road daily, Brega identified the need to elevate the skills of its drivers beyond standard training. The aim was to implement advanced safety practices that could reduce risks, prevent accidents, and ensure adherence to stringent industry regulations.

Our Approach

Qabas delivered a targeted, intensive training programme designed to equip Brega’s drivers with the necessary skills to operate safely in high-risk environments. The training was specifically tailored to address the unique challenges of hazardous cargo transportation, focusing on preventive measures and real-time risk management. Key focus areas included:

1. Advanced Defensive Driving Techniques: Emphasised maintaining safe practices in varying road and weather conditions. Drivers were trained to anticipate potential hazards and respond proactively to avoid incidents.
2. Specialised Handling of Hazardous Cargo: Provided detailed instruction on managing the dynamics of hazardous loads, including optimising braking distances, load distribution, and vehicle stability during transit. Drivers also learned the importance of route planning and identifying risks specific to transporting dangerous goods.
3. Emergency Response and Incident Management: Focused on effective response strategies in case of emergencies, covering containment procedures, evacuation protocols, and immediate communication channels for assistance.
4. Understanding Vehicle Dynamics and Load Sensitivity: Explored how factors like load shifts, weight distribution, and the centre of gravity impact vehicle performance. Drivers were trained on best practices for loading and securing cargo to maintain stability.
5. Regulatory Compliance and Best Practices: Updated participants on the latest regulatory requirements for hazardous cargo transportation, ensuring that all operations comply with legal standards and industry best practices.

Implementation

The training was delivered through a combination of classroom instruction and practical, on-the-road exercises. Drivers engaged in simulated scenarios reflecting real-world challenges, allowing them to apply newly learned techniques in a controlled environment. The programme also included group discussions and feedback sessions, encouraging collaborative learning and the exchange of experiences among participants.

Results

The training led to a marked improvement in the driving skills of Brega’s fleet operators. The drivers are now better prepared to handle the complexities of hazardous cargo transportation, reducing the risk of incidents on Libyan roads. By integrating advanced driving techniques and hazard management strategies into their daily routines, Brega has significantly enhanced its operational safety standards. This initiative has not only bolstered the company’s safety performance but also contributed to broader public safety by setting higher standards in hazardous cargo transportation.