An upcoming event will place focus on road safety but in a way that may not receive the attention it should. This is the vital topic of fire safety within trucking. In the USA, it is estimated that there are 7 000 truck fires annually.
While statistics are not readily available in South Africa, truck fires are not uncommon, particularly as incidents of arson are on the increase. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: “Whether a truck fire begins because of a crash or otherwise, it has significant implications on road safety. Not only will it affect a driver and their rig but can also potentially affect other motorists and road users.
“An extreme example of the potential for destruction in a truck fire is the explosion of the gas tanker on Christmas Eve in 2022. This is a prime example of the danger and destruction associated with truck fires. Increasing one’s understanding of fire safety in road freight is an essential part of road safety,” says Herbert.
The upcoming fire safety event will be hosted by RNS Occupational Health and Safety. CEO of the organisation, Bobby Shemmans, says it is important to start the conversation on a major aspect of road freight safety. “It allows for understanding of the risk factors. Along with this is awareness of how to mitigate the risk.
“As such the event is an opportunity to connect with organisations committed to keeping truck drivers and other road users safe, reducing the significant loss associated with truck fires and helping organisations strengthen their commitment to safety for all. It will be an invaluable opportunity to share information and network with industry role players.”
Additionally, attendees will gain first-hand insight and understanding of truck fires. “Various demonstrations will illustrate specific issues such as how to extinguish fires, what to consider in dangerous goods transportation and information on tyres in a fire. Firefighters will be present at the demonstration to share their experience and oversee the activities.
“In particular, one demonstration will have a powerful impact on attendees. While we cannot reveal much about it right now, it is something that is not to be missed. We look forward to hosting organisations committed to all aspects of safety and sharing invaluable knowledge on fire safety in road freight,” says Shemmans.
MasterDrive is proud to be a part of this important event. “We encourage attendance to further advance your organisations safety knowledge and experience,” says Herbert.
Event details
Date: 27 March 2025
Time: 09:00 – 12:00
Venue: Fire Training Centre, Ardeer Road, Modderfontein
Dress code: comfortable clothing and do not forget your sunblock
RSVP: scan the QR code below to register your attendance
