Whether you are choosing your own work vehicle or considering which car to choose for the whole team, getting it right matters. If you are like me and spend a fair amount of time on the road, the wrong set up and the wrong car can lead to discomfort and injury. When the whole team is in the wrong car, it can have a significant effect on job satisfaction and productivity.
So how do you choose the right work vehicle? Here are some key things to consider:
- Adjustability matters - There is a lower incidence of discomfort in drivers of cars with more adjustable features.
- It’s not just about price - It is important to ensure that the lease or purchase price is not the only key factor in choosing cars – if employees are not comfortable, the overall cost to the company could be far higher.
- Just like shoes, it’s not one size fits all – you need to consider the differences in your employees. What works for your largest and smallest employee may be very different.
- Try before you buy – Always recommend & facilitate test-drives before an employee chooses a car.
Think you have found the right car? Here are some more features to consider to ensure you stay comfortable and safe on the road:
Seat:
- Choose a comfortable seat that allows you to adjust the height & tilt independently of each other – able to safely reach pedals, hand controls, easily view display panel & have good all round vision.
- Base of seat should support your thighs & have no pressure behind your knees. Able to place 2-3 fingers between back of knee & front of seat.
- Should be wider than your hips & thighs.
Back rest:
- Should come to shoulder height & not obstruct vision. It should be wide enough to support shoulders.
- Should provide continuous support along entire length of back
- If lumbar support available, ensure it offers full adjustments (up/down/in/out) or it could cause pressure points or gaps
Steering Wheel:
- Should be adjustable – in/out/up/down/tilt
- Power steering
- Centrally positioned
Pedals & gearbox:
- Ideally automatic
- Easy to depress, without having to reach for
Boot/Trunk:
- Appropriate height, easy access – Consider the potential manual handling risks
- Ideally electric closing
- Consider if a cargo cage will be required and how easy it is to move if required.
Car environment:
- Adequate leg & head room
- Air conditioning
Office work:
- If high amount of office work done on the road, consider a laptop buddy/frame
Finally, always remember, the best position is the next position – options are everything. Drive safely!