As a company that strongly believes in the importance of Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) education, Shell Commercial Fuels recently held their annual Distributor Driver of the Year competition at the Umdloti Testing Grounds in Durban on 15 and 16 November 2019.

This competition tested both the theoretical and practical knowledge of some of the top truck drivers employed by Shell Commercial Fuels’ branded-distributors and is focused on improving drivers’ skills, which plays a crucial role in preventing truck-related road accidents.

“As an advocate of truck driver wellness and education, Shell Commercial Fuels is committed to promoting road safety and training among drivers,” notes Frans Maluleke, Shell Commercial Fuels Manager. “We believe that consistent driver education and skills development goes a long way towards enhancing road safety.

This is especially relevant in the run-up to the festive season. Ultimately we want to ensure that our branded distributor’s drivers are among the safest drivers on the road.”

For the Driver of the Year 2019 two-day event, Shell Commercial Fuels appointed NOSA Logistics, as a training and testing provider. Participants were tested on theoretical aspects such as current traffic legislation and road safety regulations, as well as practical skills.

Although all participants showcased advanced truck driving skills and knowledge, Pieter Andre Jacobs from Sebokeng was announced as being the Shell Commercial Fuels’ Distributor Driver of the Year 2019. Jacobs scored the second highest result in the theory test and the highest result in the practical and yard test overall, walking away with a R15 000 cash prize.

In line with its Shell Cares philosophy, Shell Commercial Fuels also invited the drivers’ spouses to the event, where they were treated to superb activities and an opportunity to witness their partners being acknowledged at a glamorous gala dinner and prize giving.  Shell Commercial Fuels wanted to show its appreciation to these partners, the support structure to these drivers who are responsible for accelerating South Africa’s economy, “We need to recognise and celebrate the spouses that stand behind our drivers for they are the silent heroes" explains Maluleke.

“HSSE sits at the heart of our business, which includes creating public awareness about the driver behind the wheel to ensure the drivers get back home safely to their families. Having been a part of building South Africa over the last 117 years, Shell remains committed to uplifting the nation in its commitment to road safety,” concludes Maluleke.