Paying tribute to silent heroes

Shell Commercial Fuels highlights the importance of truck driver support through its 2019 Distributor Driver of the Year competition

As a company that strongly believes in the importance of health, safety, security and environment (HSSE) education, Shell Commercial Fuels recently held its annual Distributor Driver of the Year competition at the Umdloti Testing Grounds in Durban.

The competition tested the theoretical and practical knowledge of some of the top truck drivers employed by Shell Commercial Fuels’ branded distributors and was focused on improving drivers’ skills, an aspect 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,” says Frans Maluleke, manager of Shell Commercial Fuels. “We believe that consistent driver education and skills development goes a long way towards enhancing road safety. Ultimately we want to ensure that our branded distributors’ drivers are among the safest drivers on the road.”

For the two-day event, Shell Commercial Fuels appointed NOSA Logistics as a training and testing provider. Participants were tested on their knowledge of current traffic legislation and road safety regulations, as well as on their practical driving skills.

Although all participants showcased advanced truck driving skills and knowledge, Pieter Andre Jacobs from Sebokeng was announced as Driver of the Year 2019. He scored the second-highest result in the theory test and the highest result in the practical and yard test, 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 an array of activities as well as 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 the partners, who represent the drivers’ support structure. “We need to recognise and celebrate spouses who stand behind our drivers. They are our silent heroes,” Maluleke says.

“HSSE sits at the heart of our business, which includes creating public awareness about the driver behind the wheel. 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,” Maluleke concludes.