Craig Allan, Director of Specialised Sales, ABAX continues his series on saving costs on site with cutting-edge telematics technology.
In the previous article we discussed how using simple technology could save your business through predictive maintenance, effective use of equipment, better tool management and increased compliance monitoring. Today we are going to explore additional benefits of telematics that will also drive efficiencies and cost savings in your business.
Fuel Management
Telematics systems offer detailed fuel usage data, helping companies track and analyse fuel consumption. They also highlight driving inefficiencies like excessive idling and, with real-time GPS and alerts for lost assets, reduce unnecessary trips. This ensures vehicles are used efficiently, leading to lower fuel costs.
Efficient fuel management can reduce unnecessary travel, lower fuel consumption, and minimises wear and tear on assets, meaning fewer interruptions and delays, reduced downtime, enhancing overall project timelines.
Removing unnecessary journeys, therefore reducing fuel spend, also has some knock on consequences – in additional to the money saved at the pump – these are an increase in operational/billable hours of your employees and a reduction in wear and tear, and therefore SMR cost to your fleet.
So, efficient fuel management can reduce unnecessary travel, lower fuel consumption, and reduce wear and tear on assets, meaning fewer interruptions and delays, reducing downtime, and enhancing overall project timelines.
Theft Deterrent
A survey by the Chartered Institute of Building reports that 92% of construction companies claim they are directly affected by petty crime and 21% revealed that their sites are targeted on a regular basis. Advanced telematics solutions not only provide peace of mind with a tighter control over valuable assets, but can assist with recovery in the unfortunate event of a theft.
Geofence technology allows site managers to set predefined boundaries for equipment. When equipment moves outside these designated areas, alerts are triggered, enabling quick responses and improving site security. By ensuring that equipment stays within the assigned zones, geofencing prevents project delays caused by misplaced or stolen equipment.
Investing in telematics software, can deter theft of assets of all sizes, meaning the crucial tool, machine or vehicle required for a job is always available.
Driver and Operator Behavior Monitoring
Telematics software can monitor driving and operating habits, identifying behaviours such as harsh braking, rapid acceleration, and excessive idling. Correcting these habits helps reduce wear and tear on vehicles and equipment, lowering maintenance and repair costs. Identifying and addressing risky behaviours, also significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents, leading to lower repair and replacement expenses as well as lower insurance premiums, and a safe and well workforce!
Using data from telematics solutions to assist in performance improvement can lead to a more efficient business. Monitoring usage of plant and equipment allows for better allocation per job, and a reduction in wasted assets – being on site but not being used. Looking at how vehicles are driven and providing education around this reduces the costs associated with maintain the vehicles and cuts down the unplanned downtime caused by vehicle breakdowns or unplanned maintenance needs.
A well-trained workforce that operates efficiently and safely can deliver higher-quality work, attracting more business in return. Clients are more likely to trust and hire companies known for their skilled and reliable workers, and timely and successful completion of projects.
Transparency and Accountability
Regular, automated reports on asset usage help identify under utilised or over utilised equipment as well as early detection of misuse or damage. This enables better decision-making on further investments and training before costly repairs or replacements are needed.
Fleet management software automatically documents all driving via a vehicle GPS tracking system and calculates mileage and distance. This accurate, automated and data-led record keeping of both personal and private use of company vehicles, can help minimise the amount of tax paid and eliminate the risk of HMRC penalty charges.
Clear records of who used what tools and when, enhance individual accountability, which encourages more responsible usage and fewer incidents of lost or damaged tools. Automated tracking and detailed mileage logs also simplify the reporting process for HMRC, so van drivers and Fleet Managers can stay informed and compliant.
Continuous real-time tracking can identify and address any discrepancies in asset usage, leading to quicker resolutions and consistent project momentum. Telematics tracking also helps ensure compliance with industry regulations by maintaining accurate records of usage and maintenance and reducing the risk of fines.
The advanced application of telematics in all areas of construction management, is shaping the future of the industry. By harnessing predictive maintenance, bolstering project management systems, and utilising geofencing technology construction companies can achieve higher levels of efficiency, safety, and profitability.
In short, a simple ‘black box’ could prove transformational for your business. It can assist in the increase of revenue, the reduction of costs and the mitigation of risks. In some circumstances it can achieve all three.
For more information on ABAX, visit Trusted experts in fleet management services | ABAX.
