There is certainly no shortage of circumstances to consider when you own and manage a pizza delivery service. One issue that cannot be forgotten, however, is the protection of your drivers and staff. Unfortunately, delivering pizzas can be a dangerous job. In addition to the perils of frequent driving, there is also the danger of dangerous animals and robbery. There are steps you can take to improve your driver's protection, reduce costly insurance claims, safe guard your pizza restaurant supplies, and secure your pizzeria's revenue.

Define Your Pizzeria's Non-Negotiables 

Frequently accidents occur simply because a driver was not made aware of the fact that something is unsafe, or against company policy. Create and maintain an employee handbook, as well as a detailed manual for your drivers. Obtaining a precise set of rules and guidelines set out for your staff should help them address potentially hazardous situations more effectively. Your manual should start with proclaiming that your driver’s safety is your number one concern, because it is! Your dedication to your employees and their personal safety will likely be reflected back on your business in dedication and loyalty from your staff members. Some of the policies your employees should follow include a ban of cell phone use while driving, as well as personal music players, and extreme music volume. A pizza delivery driver spends quite a bit of time driving, thus increasing their odds of an accident due to the sheer length of time spent driving. Lowering distractions will increase your driver’s chances of returning from their deliveries safe and sound.

Also, make it clear that there is to be no alcohol, drugs, or firearms in the driver's vehicle at any time. Also, institute a zero-tolerance policy for driving while under the influence. Outline your company's policy, including any alcohol or drug screenings that could be performed, and be prepared to apply this rule. If an staff member appears to be intoxicated in any way, send them home immediately. Make it known that an intoxicated employee will not only not work their scheduled shift, but will never work for you at all. 

Suit Your Drivers with the Gear They Need 

An important component in a driver's safety is providing them with the tools they require to keep their eyes on the road. Using their phone, checking maps, and trying to secure loose pizzas can jeopardize your driver's safety. Think about supplying your driver's with a GPS system to prevent the use of folding maps, and reduce the chances of your driver getting lost. The extra cost for these systems is offset by the decrease in wasted time trying to find a location, and ensuring that the pizza arrives in the quickest time frame possible. Also, provide your drivers with high quality pizza delivery bags to keep your product hot, intact, and secure in your driver's vehicle. 

Have a “Dangerous Situation” Plan and Follow It 

Format a plan for your drivers to help them tackle potentially unsafe situations. It is crucial that your drivers learn how to spot as well as avoid a situation before it takes place. Let them recognize that if something feels “off” that they're to stay in their car and telephone the manager on duty for additional guidance. Trust your drivers; listen to their concerns, and always err on the side of caution. Implement a no-resistance policy for all employees. If someone wants your pizza money offer it to them! By no means allow or persuade your workers to danger their lives or the lives of other individuals by putting up a struggle. On that note, make an effort to minimize the amount of cash your drivers have, and any signage on their vehicl