What is ISO 39001 Road Traffic Safety Management?
ISO 39001 is the international standard for Road Traffic Safety (RTS) Management Systems. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization, ISO 39001 provides a structured framework for organisations to improve road traffic safety and reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
This standard is especially relevant for businesses involved in transport, logistics, fleet management, and any organisation whose employees spend significant time on the road. ISO 39001 sets out requirements for implementing policies, setting objectives, and developing processes that contribute to safer road use.
Who is ISO 39001 for?
ISO 39001 is suitable for a wide range of organisations, particularly those who:
- Operate vehicle fleets or manage drivers
- Work in road transport, delivery services, logistics, or public transportation
- Have employees regularly travelling by road for work purposes
- Want to demonstrate a commitment to reducing road-related risks and improving safety
- Are looking to meet legal obligations or client requirements related to road safety
Whether you’re a local delivery firm or a multinational logistics company, ISO 39001 can help enhance your road safety performance and reputation.
What is required?
To achieve ISO 39001 certification, an organisation must:
- Implement a Road Traffic Safety Management System aligned with the standard’s requirements
- Identify and analyse road safety risks relevant to their operations
- Define RTS objectives and performance targets
- Establish policies and procedures to improve safety outcomes
- Monitor, measure, and evaluate road safety performance
- Commit to continual improvement and legal compliance
Third-party certification bodies will assess the organisation’s system through audits to ensure it meets ISO 39001 standards.
The Benefits of ISO 39001
Implementing ISO 39001 offers several advantages, including:
- Competitive edge: Certification can help win contracts, particularly where safety standards are a key criterion
- Reduced road traffic incidents: Lower accident rates, injuries, and fatalities
- Improved legal compliance: Meet national and international road safety regulations
- Enhanced reputation: Demonstrates your organisation’s commitment to safety and responsibility
- Operational efficiency: Better vehicle and driver management can lead to reduced downtime and costs
- Employee safety and morale: Safer working conditions contribute to greater staff well-being and retention
