A trial that breathalyzes visitors at Volvo Construction Equipment’s Customer Centre in Sweden before they can operate machines has proven so popular – even among those tested – that the safety measure is set to be rolled out globally.
There are certain safety rules that can never be broken when operating heavy machinery – always wear a seat belt, drive carefully, pay attention to your surroundings and, importantly, drive sober.
The Customer Centre is home to a number of events – including the famous Volvo Days – that are dedicated to giving customers, journalists and dealers a chance to get up close and personal with Volvo CE and its machines. These events provide an occasion for attendees to come together and enjoy themselves while learning about the full Volvo offering. There is also a chance to test drive the equipment, and the breathalyzer scheme was introduced to guarantee utmost safety when handling the machines.
The initiative began as a trial but is now set to become standard policy. Each year over 25,000 people visit the centre and approximately half of those operate the wide range of Volvo equipment available in the test yard. The new initiative ensures all visitors understand the importance of safely operating the machines, as well as guaranteeing that they are in the best shape to operate the big, heavy and often fast moving equipment.
