Driving Safety Forward: Transforming Field Operations with the ‘Drive with 5’ Training Program

Designing Digitally partnered with Rentokil to create a dynamic, web-based training series called ‘Drive with 5.’ This solution was not just a set of lessons, but an engaging experience designed to keep drivers invested in their own safety.

It was built around five core defensive driving principles that Rentokil drivers would need to master: Look Ahead 15, Scan 360, Communicate Early, Know Your Escape, and Act Decisively. Each principle was introduced in a dedicated lesson, guiding drivers through interactive scenarios and real-world challenges. The training was designed to engage users through multimedia content, including video-based simulations, knowledge checks, and hands-on activities that mirrored the everyday experiences of Rentokil’s drivers on the road.

The ‘Look Ahead 15’ module, for instance, instilled a proactive mindset in drivers, teaching them to anticipate hazards by scanning the road up to 15 seconds ahead. The ‘Scan 360’ lesson further reinforced this, encouraging drivers to continuously monitor their surroundings by using mirrors and checking blind spots. The ‘Communicate Early’ module emphasized the importance of proactive communication with other motorists, teaching drivers how to use lights, signals, and other indicators to reduce surprises and prevent accidents. ‘Know Your Escape’ focused on decision space, showing drivers how to maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and others to ensure they had time to react to sudden changes on the road. Finally, ‘Act Decisively’ combined all these principles, empowering drivers to make quick, informed decisions in potentially dangerous situations.

This training was more than just a series of lessons; it was an immersive experience replicating real-world driving conditions. Drivers were tasked with making split-second decisions based on scenarios they might face on the road. They learned how to identify hazards, communicate their intentions effectively, and act decisively to avoid collisions, all while practicing defensive driving techniques that would protect themselves, their vehicles, and others.

The results of the “Drive with 5” program were transformative. Rentokil saw a marked improvement in driver safety and a significant reduction in road-related incidents. Employees were more aware of their surroundings and more confident in their ability to handle unpredictable situations. The training instilled a culture of proactive driving, where anticipating hazards and acting swiftly became second nature to Rentokil’s drivers. The success of this program reinforced Rentokil’s reputation as a company that prioritizes safety and ensures that its workforce is equipped with the best tools and knowledge to perform their jobs safely and efficiently, no matter where in the world they are.