GRSP MENA trains traffic police on data collection

‘Data Reform, Speed Limitation and Drinking & Driving’ are the three main areas of focus for the EuroMed Road Safety Pilot Project launching in Lebanon.

A road safety advisory group has been formed for the purpose of steering this project, and following a national workshop in May 2013, working groups were formed.

Among the components needing special attention was the crash data collection form. While the form itself was adapted from countries advanced in their management of road safety, and which conform to international norms and standards, localized amendments were required to facilitate effective and accurate data collection for traffic police officers. Such modifications were developed by Sets International, a global engineering and consulting firm and a dedicated partner in road safety.

On February 11th 2014, MENA Region Manager Samar Abouraad and GRSP Road Safety Adviser Sandra Arbid conducted training for traffic police officers from the two police departments covered under the pilot. The session was also attended by General Mohammad Al Ayoubi, Beirut Traffic Chief, and advisory group coordinator.

The data collection form was thoroughly reviewed with some additional changes made. With the production of the final version, each department will begin a two month trial starting at the end of February, with a goal that such data collection techniques be replicated and applied throughout Lebanon.

‘Work is advancing in all the groups… and whilst it is true that we have quite an ambitious goal, we are confident that with the commitment of all stakeholders, it is indeed achievable’ commented Samar Abouraad at the conclusion of the training.

We will provide further updates on the Lebanon project in coming months.