Imperial Logistics introduces automated-briefing system for drivers

The project consists of a comprehensive system on which every driver’s personal and professional information is stored – from driving certificates, licenses and training updates, to driver ratings, incident reports, medical details, and chronic medication. Self-briefing “kiosks”, much like the self-service check-in counters at airports, have been installed at Imperial sites, and it is through these that drivers access the self-briefing portal.

“Where drivers would previously interface with a controller, they now clock into the self-service portal and brief themselves on the system,” chief strategy officer Cobus Rossouw explains.

“It will not allow the driver to clock in unless he has had the required 12 hours’ rest. If he is taking chronic medication for a condition like diabetes, for example, it will ask the driver questions to ensure that he has taken his medication.”

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This biometric system is operated with the driver’s fingerprints, and Rossouw reports that Imperial has found staff are more willing to declare facts and answer questions during the self-briefing session than they might be when sitting face-to-face with a supervisor. “If a driver has forgotten to take medication that he needs, it is easier for him to be open with the self-briefing portal. An issue like this would be flagged, the driver would have a session with a controller, and the problem can be quickly and easily remedied.”

According to the company, the system is providing drivers with computer skills and boosting their self-esteem. The same system and kiosks are also being used for post-trip driver debriefing.