[Scott Daniels]

At Orion we put our Network Operators through an advanced driving course and 4wd course. During these courses they learn what their vehicles capabilities are and the safest way to use the functions that the vehicle has (descent control, use of 4wd etc). Our vehicles are also fitted with winches (handy for self recovery) and have Eroads which drastically reduces over speed issues and increases speed awareness. Eroads also keeps track of off-road kms and therefore reduces RUC.

[Stephen Small]

Hi Craig

Like Orion we put our field workers through professional 4WD courses, which includes understanding the terrain and traction limitations.

A previous business I worked for had a substantive part of it’s infrastructure off-road and/or in an alpine environment (i.e. snow/ice/steep terrain). We had a policy that 4WD was to be engaged on all gravel roads, in paddocks, on farm tracks, and in snow/ice/floods/river crossings etc. It was also good for the vehicles as the mechanicals were engaged and lubricated regularly.

S.