How to talk to your drivers about fuel theft

Here’s an interesting fact - according to a poll carried out by Fleet News, close to two-thirds (63.6%) of fleet managers have been victims of fuel theft or fraud. This poll was carried out in 2021, long before the current cost of living crisis kicked in. 

Since then, fuel prices have skyrocketed, with a litre of unleaded petrol now costing more than £1.90, the risk of fuel theft is substantial to say the least. People are desperate, and desperate times call for desperate measures; so it’s important that as a business operator, you ensure that your drivers are well informed about the potential risks and consequences of thievery - both in terms of being victims, and (sadly) as perpetrators. 

We understand that these are difficult times for fleet managers here at TankSafe, and we know that sometimes these can be difficult conversations to have with your employees without sounding like you’re making accusations. So, we’ve put together a short guide on ways you can communicate these issues with your drivers, as well as protect your vehicles from potential fuel theft. 

Talk openly about the risks / consequences of fuel theft

open with your drivers about the downsides of fuel theft, and how it affects the business, and in turn, their job security, you’ll all be on the same page. Often, this will be enough on its own deter any members of your workforce from indulging in any further fuel skimming - most people don’t like to think of themselves as criminals, especially not if it means their actions adversely affect their colleagues. 

If you’re not sure that will be sufficient though - if you want to emphasise the point, you could always mention the serious consequences facing anyone inside the business caught taking fuel by explaining internal disciplinary processes and potential police involvement. Hopefully this kind of action won’t be necessary, but it’s a nuclear button you can press should you feel you need it. 

Aside from internal fuel skimming, it’s worth speaking to your drivers about the things they need to look out for while on the road or parked up, so they can actively monitor for any external elements that pose a potential threat to the security of your fuel. Things like people getting unnecessarily close to their vehicles in quiet areas, fluctuating fuel levels, certain noises and so on are all red flags when it comes to spotting potential thieves. 

There’s no need to leave your employees in the dark. By being open and honest, you create a better working atmosphere where everyone’s on the same page, and working towards the same goals. Regardless though, it’s always good to have protective measures in place, just for extra peace of mind. 

Consider some anti-theft devices

Fitting anti-theft hardware to your fleet vehicles is a great long-term investment. We know the importance of ensuring that your fuel is safe, especially during these trying times, so our products have been protecting vehicles from fuel theft and spillage loss for over 20 years, and our solutions have been spearheaded by the TankSafe Optimum. It’s the only security device that can offer you 3 in 1 protection by saving you from fuel spills, overfilling, and making your vehicles 100% immune to fuel theft. Our product range is protected by 45 patents covering 49 territories worldwide, so rest assured you won’t find a more efficient and reliable source of protection. 

Any questions? Feel free to head over to our FAQs page, where we answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding our products and services. However, if it doesn’t address your queries, you can give us a call on 01253 400 401, and we’ll be happy to help however we can!