The University of Birmingham’s Department of Chemical Engineering is currently researching the cost-effectiveness of a fleet of five hydrogen-powered vehicles. But what about the health and safety and insurance issues?The University of Birmingham’s Department of Chemical Engineering is currently researching hydrogen-powered cars.
The university department wants to asses the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of five hydrogen-powered vehicles.
The project is typical of those undertaken within the Higher and Further Education (HE and FE) sector. It demonstrates the diversity of its fleets, ranging from cars and vans, to tractors and combine harvesters.
Securing effective cover for these vehicles demands the services of an organisation with an in-depth knowledge of the sector. UMAL is the UK’s only HE and FE specialist. It is a mutual organisation comprised of 55 universities and colleges, including Birmingham.
Prior to their project, Birmingham’s insurance officer, Gillian Kelsall, discussed motor cover requirements with UMAL.
“The vehicles are not being driven off campus, but used in research work. UMAL confirmed that, as they were not being driven anywhere that falls within the Road Traffic Act, we did not require conventional motor insurance.”
Instead, UMAL ensured that the university’s liability and property covers fully responded to their needs. “Therefore, this research is covered within our normal portfolio of covers. Also, the normal risk assessments are done for the work as part of standard procedures, ensuring we are conforming to Health and Safety issues.”
The hydrogen vehicles – or ‘microcabs’ – will be used for such activities as postal deliveries. This will enable the Chemical Engineering Department to assess them.
The University has a fleet of approximately 100 vehicles, the insurance for which is arranged under a UMAL Members motor insurance scheme. This covers anything from car-derived vans to agricultural vehicles.
Gillian says: “The fleet is used campus-wide for various duties, including businesses, deliveries and maintenance.”
The fleet is run by a motor manager who maintains it and arranges for any special training requirements. This enables the University to fulfil its duties in a safe and professional manner.
