Nov/Dec 2005

The Transport & General Workers' Union is using a mobile tracking system to enhance the security of mobile staff, and provide an automated audit trail of its cars. It has chosen the Eagle Eye system, which has been installed in 30 pool cars used by its organiser and recruitment team.

The GPRS-based system features a range of capabilities including navigation, communication, information, reporting, control, safety and security.

The vehicles will be used in particular by membership recruiters who have long distances to travel across the country. According to Tom Quirke, the TGWU's chief financial officer: "It's been a constant worry that we didn't feel able to ensure their safety every step of the way. This is the first solution we have seen that will effectively protect our drivers."

As reported in the last m.logistics, another union, the GMB, has recently been complaining that telematics systems can be an intrusion into the lives of workers. However, its concerns were not shared by the TGWU - a point underlined by this new telematics implementation.

As Tom Quirke puts it: "The TGWU stands alongside its members to protect their interests at all times, and the partnership with Eagle Eye reiterates this dedication."