Case Study: National Grid’s Safer, More Capable Fleet

Problem

With a fleet of over 11,500 drivers navigating everything from city streets to rural routes, National Grid faced rising safety concerns, especially with heavy-duty vehicles that are prone to visibility and maneuvering issues. For this gas and electric utility company serving customers in the northeast United States, preventable collisions, particularly during backing and close-quarter situations, posed a costly and recurring challenge. The company needed a reliable, proven solution to build safer driver behaviors and reduce risk across its operations.

Solution

National Grid launched Smith System training with a pilot training program for gas operators. After receiving enthusiastic feedback, the company made the program a requirement across all departments. Today, newly hired and transferred employees complete in-house training conducted by Smith-certified trainers, while experienced staff benefit from regular refresher courses. National Grid also used Smith’s 5Keys Backing course and eLearning tools, customizing training with actual company vehicles to imitate real-world conditions. Even executives take part, reinforcing a top-down commitment to its safety culture.

Results

Since integrating Smith System driver training into its safety policies, National Grid has reduced preventable collisions by 33%. Drivers have embraced the program, reporting greater confidence and skill behind the wheel. By investing in high-result training and tailoring it to on-the-ground realities, National Grid has created a safer, more capable fleet where safety training is seen as both a professional development tool and a critical operational priority.