Scotland’s work to reduce deaths and serious injuries on the nation’s roads has received international recognition after the Safe System Capacity Building Programme was honoured at the Prince Michael International Road Safety Awards.
The award is presented each year to organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to improving road safety across the world.
Scotland’s programme was selected by a panel of international experts who praised the country’s leadership in embedding the Safe System approach across national and local partners.
The Safe System model is at the heart of Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2030 and is recognised internationally as the benchmark for long term, sustainable road safety improvement.
The approach looks across every part of the road system including the road environment, vehicle technology, behaviour, education and the responsibilities of those who design and manage the network.
The Scottish Government said the award reflects significant work already completed to strengthen knowledge, training and consistency across the sector.
As part of the programme, more than 500 road safety partners have taken part in extensive training and education programmes.
An e learning tool has been developed to support ongoing training for partners across the country.
The world’s first Safe System Manual has also been produced to give every practitioner clear guidance on how to apply the Safe System approach in their daily work.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop welcomed the award and said it recognises the dedication of road safety teams across Scotland.
“Road Safety is a priority for the Scottish Government, and it’s vital that we and our partners never lose sight of the fact that one life lost on our roads is one too many.
“The Safe System approach to road safety looks to involve those who manage and design the roads, as well as those who use them.
“We must all work together to ensure our roads are used safely to help eradicate fatal and serious injuries.
“I’m pleased this approach has been recognised at the Prince Michael International Road Safety Awards, but we know it’s vital that we continue to work with partners at all levels to reach our target of Scotland having the best road safety performance in the world by 2030.
“I remain absolutely determined to save lives and ensure we continue working towards our long term vision of no one being killed or seriously injured on Scotland’s roads by 2050.”
The Scottish Government says the next phase of work will focus on continuing to embed Safe System thinking across national bodies, local authorities, emergency services and road designers as Scotland moves toward the 2030 and 2050 targets.
The award is seen as a significant milestone in Scotland’s long term commitment to reducing harm on the roads and strengthening safety for all road users from pedestrians and cyclists to drivers and passengers.
