The sector must look after its fleet vehicles

Grundon is primarily a regional rather than a national player, operating across the south of England. Nonetheless, we are unusual within the waste industry in owning and operating the vast majority of our vehicle fleet. We run over 250 trucks in all, from 4.5 tonne Waste Presses, to 44 tonne tractor-trailer and tanker combinations.

Investment in the fleet is important, not just in the vehicles themselves but also in the highly skilled, specialist staff needed to run fleet management departments and vehicle workshops.

Grandson of company founder Steven Grundon, Neil Grundon, joined the family business as Project Coordinator for the Thorney Park golf course, which was developed on a 70 acre restored landfill site.
He was appointed director of aggregates and mineral resources in November 1993, and development director in 2000.

Safety is also uppermost, we believe that MOT pass/fail data should be reported at Board level. Utilising new technology is also an excellent way to improve safety. On our own fleet, all vehicles purchased since 2005 have been equipped with rear view cameras, and we are progressively fitting ‘Broadband' (an audible reversing aid) to the fleet. We are also trialling a reversing sensor system to detect obstacles and automatically apply the parking brake.

Emissions 

Separate trials are underway to assess front view cameras to cover the blind spots at the front of Front End Loaders, and Dead Angle Mirror Systems. It is essential to go above and beyond legislative requirements to ensure both vehicles operatives and the public are safe.

The environment is also an important factor to consider when choosing fleet vehicles. In choosing vehicles with lower emissions, companies are entitled to Reduced Pollution Certificates which translates into a reduced rate of VED. An improvement in fuel economy has been particularly welcome this year given the steep rise in diesel prices. There is also an environmental benefit in terms of lower emissions.

Crew comfort is also something the industry must consider. All of Grundon's vehicles are fitted with air conditioning and we have equipped a number of trucks with ‘Road Friendly Suspension' (air suspension), which is also easier on road surfaces. In addition we have taken some vehicle manufacturers to task on their latest designs, with particular reference to crew seating.

Purchasing trends are also changing. The last 18 months has shown a marked trend away from general waste vehicles, in favour of waste wheeler vehicles in the 10-26 tonne bracket and compaction systems for our commingled recyclables collections.

The fleet is the workhorse of the business and, at Grundon, we believe it is essential to keep up with vehicle developments, buy the right types of vehicles and keep our trucks in excellent condition. This ensures they can do their job, and protect the environment and keep people safe.