The International Road Federation (IRF) recently launched its Global Credential Program for Road Safety Audit Team Leaders, which aims to encourage safe road design practices.
Road safety inspections reduce the risk of death on roadways in an efficient and cost-effective way.
Nations with the fastest growth in road construction and motorists are also the nations least likely to have road safety audit programs.
In India, for example, an average of 410 people died every day last year from motor vehicle accidents, according to a report released in The Times of India. The death rate rose by 10 people per day compared to the same data in 2015.
Deaths in India have been on the increase since 1970. The attitude that accidents are not preventable, a lack of adequate laws and poor law enforcement, contributed to this increase, IRF said.
“The IRF has for many years been a leading global advocate for road safety, promoting best practices in safe road design and management through our advocacy work, knowledge-sharing programs, and capacity building initiatives,” IRF President & CEO C. Patrick Sankey said. “Every day, our member organizations affect real change by designing solutions that help to protect people from death or injuries. The Global Credential Program is a major advance that provides a common benchmark for safety professionals and road agencies around the world.”
Those who wish to participate in the program must submit an application and take an online knowledge qualifying exam.