Between the 3-5th August, Bougainville Copper provided defensive driver training for 10 enthusiastic BCL vehicle contractors and one staff member in Arawa. The training was facilitated by Concept Training Group from Port Moresby.
The drivers were trained on the following topics:
- PNG Road & Safety Legislation
- Defensive Driving Overview
- Driving Hazards and Risk Management
- Vehicle Dynamics & Control
- Fatigue Management
- Driver condition management
- Vehicle Management Checks
- Vehicle Dynamics & Controls
Practical
- Low risk defensive driving techniques (Through town streets)
- Parallel Parking (additional to the training as requested by participants)
Each participant received a certificate of attendance after successfully completing a practical examination on low-risk defensive driver techniques. They also received a manual from Concept Training Group to refer back to.
David Tsitoa said of the course: “It made me realise, as a business owner in this sector, that I need to structure my entity to include what I have been missing out on. As a result, of the training, both me and other drivers who attended, will return and stage our own workshop to help our other drivers.”
The training had an immediate positive effect on the drivers, with improved attitudes towards road safety and enhanced skills and knowledge applied on resuming their driving duties.
“Initially, we thought that we were good drivers, however, this training has demonstrated that we have not been following certain rules, and we now have a greater understanding on how we can take extra precautions to ensure safer driving.” Said Leo Manin (Jodash)
Barnick Katoa of MD Hires expressed his gratitude. “Thank you BCL and Sebulon for running a fantastic defensive driving course. I learnt a lot regarding risk and driving which I was not previously aware of.”
All participants were grateful for the chance to undertake the training to improve their driving skills, as there are few opportunities within Bougainville for this type of driver training.
The skills developed over the two-day course not only help participants directly in their capacity as contract drivers, but also led to greater awareness of the importance of safety in overall vehicle operations and business more generally.
Special thanks to all the participants and the team who organised the training.