Delivery riders have undergone a special course to ensure they stay safe and more aware of the challenges other road-users face in a unique, potentially life-saving, course.
The Rider Safety Awareness Programme was held for employees of Jahez, a ‘last-mile delivery’ operator, by Y K Almoayyed & Sons (YKA), as part of its commitment to corporate social responsibility and the promotion of road safety, in partnership with UD Trucks.
The session, held at YKA’s Heavy Equipment Service Centre in Sitra, was part of UD Trucks’ wider ‘Driver Guard’ initiative; a comprehensive driver training programme aimed at improving road safety practices across commercial transport sectors in the region.
“With delivery riders increasingly exposed to fast-paced urban environments and unpredictable road conditions, the programme sought to reinforce their knowledge of safety practices while promoting a culture of caution and care on Bahrain’s roads,” said a programme spokesperson.
The initiative specifically targeted delivery riders who play a vital role in the logistics chain by transporting goods from local distribution hubs directly to the doors of consumers.
This final stage of delivery, although often short in distance, is considered one of the most critical and risk-prone parts of the supply process.
Mr Alabbad, centre, receiving a token of appreciation from Mr Thomas, right, in the presence of Mr Menon
More than 100 riders from Jahez participated in the one-day training session, which covered essential topics such as road safety protocols, vehicle inspection routines, as well as personal well-being.
During the workshop, participants received practical instruction on conducting daily vehicle inspections, a routine check to ensure that motorbikes or scooters are in good working condition. Trainers stressed the importance of safety gear including helmets, reflective vests, gloves and boots, noting that wearing the correct equipment can significantly reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.
Another key element of the programme addressed the hazards posed by truck ‘blind-spots’, particularly around the front, sides and rear of heavy vehicles.
In a hands-on demonstration, riders were invited to sit in the driver’s seat of a commercial truck while others stood in typical blind spot areas, giving them real insight into the limited visibility truck drivers often face.
This eye-opening experience encouraged the riders to exercise extra caution when navigating around large vehicles.
Reinforcing the collaborative nature of the initiative, General Directorate of Traffic officials attended the session.
An official highlighted the rising number of traffic incidents, some tragically fatal, involving two-wheel vehicles and commended both UD Trucks, a renowned Japanese commercial vehicle marque, and YKA, a leading player in Bahrain’s automotive and heavy equipment sector, for their ‘proactive and meaningful contribution to community safety’.
Beyond road safety, the programme also focused on rider health and well-being – an often-overlooked area in the logistics industry. Trainers highlighted the importance of hydration, sufficient rest, proper nutrition and managing stress, all of which are essential for maintaining focus and physical stamina during long working hours.
The event concluded with a token of appreciation presented by YKA Heavy Equipment Parts & Tyres, Batteries, Lubricant and Equipment (TBLE) general manager Georgekutty Thomas to Jahez Logistic officer Husain Alabbad in the presence of YKA heavy Equipment Division general manager K. Jayadev Menon. Also in attendance was UD Trucks Middle East, East and North Africa (MEENA) Networking and Competence development manager Thilak Baluchamy, alongside Jahez delivery personnel.
jayne@gdnmedia.bh
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