Why safety and best practice matter more than ever

At Specialist Driver Resourcing we’re proud to work with builders’ merchants of all sizes across the UK, supplying experienced, professional drivers who understand the unique demands of this sector. One of the most critical aspects of what we do – so often underestimated – is ensuring best practice and safety at every stage of the delivery process. In our world, getting the job done safely is just as important as getting it done on time.

Builders’ merchants handle the movement of heavy, awkward, and potentially dangerous products like bricks, timber, cement, and steel. These are not standard parcels; they require proper lifting equipment, load securing procedures and well-trained operators who understand the risks. And, when mistakes happen, the consequences can be life-altering.

A tragic reminder of this came recently when a national builders’ merchant was fined £2 million after a piece of timber fell from a lorry and hit the windscreen of a passing motorist, resulting in a fatality. The court found that the load was secured using only one ratchet strap and proper safety checks had not been carried out. This devastating event underscores the importance of vigilance, proper training and uncompromising adherence to safety protocols – both in the yard and out on the road.

For builders’ merchants, safety is not just a compliance issue – it’s a core responsibility. Every delivery vehicle is a moving extension of your business. Every driver is a representative of your brand. And every decision, from how a load is secured to how it is offloaded at site, carries potential risks that must be managed with care.

At SDR, when we place a temporary driver with a customer, we make safety a top priority. We only place drivers who are trained, certified, and experienced in builders’ merchant logistics. They understand how to use lorry-mounted cranes, forklifts and tail lifts, such as those from HIAB and Moffett. They know how to strap and secure loads correctly. More importantly, they are aware that safety isn’t just about rules – it’s about mindset. Our drivers are briefed to assess risks, follow correct procedures and report any issues immediately.

We believe that best practice isn’t just something to be followed when convenient – it must be embedded into daily operations. And, vitally, when you bring in temporary cover during busy periods or staff absences, that commitment to safety shouldn’t dip. That’s where we come in – providing reliable, specialist support that keeps your standards high and your operation safe.

At Specialist Driver Resourcing, we help you keep moving – safely, professionally and with confidence.

So, if you need a temporary driver, get in touch with Specialist Driver Resourcing today on 02380 989 444 and discover the difference a specialist can make.