In a bid to share safer operating practices with other businesses, O’Donovan Waste Disposal has launched a campaign for 2016 to help raise awareness of a range of safety themes when driving for work.

The waste operator has planned a series of topics which will be disseminated via social media, email and flyers, to help share best practice not only amongst its own employees, but also with its clients and peers.

Developed with support from the road safety charity, Brake and Brake Professional; the messages will be promoted monthly throughout 2016, culminating in November with Road Safety Week.

O’Donovan’s campaign aims to raise awareness among drivers and employers alike, of the offence of driving while impaired by drugs, or with certain drugs in the body.

The campaign is being promoted in conjunction with the Brake Pledge; each month will see a different theme, beginning in March with the social media hashtag #notadrag which asks drivers to pledge never to take illegal drugs and drive, and to check the label of over the counter prescription drugs.

“As a construction waste operator, we have a heightened responsibility to help reduce accidents on our roads,” said Jacqueline O’Donovan, managing director of O’Donovan Waste Disposal.

“Our industry also has a duty to make road safety its priority, no matter the size of operation. I’m keen, as an SME, to share our experiences with other small businesses to help promote best practice in this key area. We simply cannot ignore the safety of other road users.”

Sarah-Jane Martin, from Brake, said: “Brake is delighted that O’Donovan Waste Disposal has committed to supporting the charity and to raising awareness about road safety.

“I applaud their dedication to supporting road crash victims and passion for improving road safety. Their efforts are a fantastic example of how companies can get involved to improve road safety and Brake looks forward to a long-lasting partnership”.