ISO 39001 can be a major differentiator for businesses, especially in countries with vast road networks like Brazil. With extensive highways connecting different regions, ensuring road safety is a critical challenge.
According to a 2023 report by Sindipeças (National Union of the Automotive Components Industry), Brazil’s truck fleet reached an impressive 2.18 million vehicles. This figure does not even account for other types of vehicles, such as taxis, buses, or ride-sharing cars.
Given the high traffic volume and extensive road network, the absence of a structured Road Traffic Safety Management System (RTSMS) can be a major problem. This is especially true for organizations that interact directly with road traffic, as the lack of proper traffic safety management can lead to various issues, impacting both people’s safety and operational efficiency.
For these reasons, this article will introduce you to ISO 39001, its objectives, and its applications. You’ll also find out whether this standard can help your company achieve better results. Let’s get started!
ISO 39001:2012 – Road Traffic Safety (RTS) Management System
ISO 39001 is a management standard developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). According to ISO, this standard aims to “enable an organization that interacts with the road traffic system to reduce deaths and serious injuries related to traffic accidents that it can influence.”
To achieve this goal, ISO 39001 outlines requirements for establishing a Road Traffic Safety Management System (RTSMS), providing guidelines for developing, implementing, and improving road safety. Some of the key requirements of ISO 39001:2012 include:
- Developing and implementing an RTS (Road Traffic Safety) policy
- Setting objectives and action plans that consider legal and regulatory requirements
- Defining RTS-related factors that the organization can either control or influence
- And much more!
Although ISO 39001 is not widely known, it was originally published in 2012 and confirmed by ISO in 2023, making it a well-established and highly relevant management standard. Additionally, in 2024, ISO 39001 received an amendment addressing climate change, ensuring its continued alignment with Annex SL-based management systems.
Benefits of ISO 39001 for Certified Companies
As a management system standard, ISO 39001 provides guidelines that can significantly enhance organizational knowledge and operational control.
If your company deals with vehicle fleets or road safety, implementing an effective RTSMS can be a strategic advantage, offering benefits such as:
- Reduction in traffic accidents and fatalities
- Greater compliance with road safety laws and regulations
- Improved vehicle efficiency and reduced costs (e.g., maintenance, fuel consumption, and insurance)
- Enhanced corporate reputation by demonstrating a commitment to safety
- Increased employee engagement and productivity
- Lower costs related to absenteeism and work-related legal claims
- And many other advantages!
By focusing on implementing, maintaining, and improving road safety processes, ISO 39001 helps organizations set clear goals and take corrective actions to reduce accident risks and optimize processes.
ISO 39001 also requires companies to identify and manage risk factors that impact traffic safety, whether directly or indirectly. This strengthens risk management practices and ensures that companies operating in transportation and mobility services can enhance both safety and operational efficiency.
Applicability of the Road Traffic Safety Management System (RTSMS)
In general, ISO 39001 is most relevant to organizations with direct interactions with road traffic or a significant impact on road safety. It is particularly used by transportation companies, but its applicability extends to various industries, including:
- Freight transportation companies
- Public transportation providers
- Ride-sharing platforms and taxi services
- E-commerce delivery businesses
- Manufacturing companies with their own distribution fleet
- Companies offering road transport-related services
- Construction companies using vehicles and machinery in projects
- Government agencies responsible for traffic and road safety
- Municipal administrations, transportation departments, and regulatory agencies
- Emergency response services relying on vehicles (e.g., fire departments, ambulances)
- Highway management and operation companies
- Traffic engineering and urban planning businesses
Additionally, even organizations that do not operate directly in road mobility can benefit from ISO 39001. Companies implementing corporate mobility policies or encouraging employees to use company vehicles may also find the standard valuable for creating a more structured and sustainable mobility approach.
ISO 39001 – The GPS for Business Sustainability
To explain the importance of ISO 39001, there’s no better analogy than comparing it to a GPS.
Just as a skilled driver adjusts their route to avoid risks and inefficiencies, companies that adhere to ISO 39001 do not just comply with legal requirements—they actively contribute to a safer and more sustainable future for all stakeholders.
Whether in traffic management or business operations, anticipating risks and making strategic decisions is the best way to reach the destination successfully. In this sense, ISO 39001 is not just a certification—it’s much more than that! It serves as a true GPS for road safety, guiding organizations toward safer, more efficient, and more profitable operations.
In today’s world, where sustainability and safety go hand in hand, adopting ISO 39001 signals a strong commitment to life preservation and environmental impact reduction in the road transport sector. This is not just about compliance—it’s about building a robust ESG framework and ensuring long-term business success!
