Last week, stakeholders from across South Africa’s transport and logistics sector gathered for an RTMS awareness Workshop, a platform dedicated to sharing knowledge and advancing industry standards, with support from MICHELIN Connected Fleet and Standard Bank.

The day highlighted how the Road Transport Management System (RTMS) standard (SANS 1395-1:2019) and the Performance-Based Standards (PBS) Smart Truck pilot project drive safer, more compliant operations. Case studies demonstrated how both small emerging fleets and large corporates are implementing these standards to reduce risk, improve efficiency, and support sustainable growth in road transport.

Participants included fleet operators, logistics professionals, regulators, and industry partners, reflecting the broad engagement in advancing the RTMS standards and safer, more efficient transport.

Charl Lensley, newly appointed Country Manager for MICHELIN Connected Fleet South Africa, said:

“Our commitment is to walk alongside operators, not just as a service provider, but as a true partner. We understand the realities of running fleets in South Africa, from compliance challenges and rising costs to driver safety and wellness. That’s why our focus is on delivering consistent, innovative solutions that address these pressures, rather than simply selling products.

By supporting initiatives like RTMS, we align with standards that not only enhance safety and compliance but also improve overall operational performance. Our goal is to equip operators with practical tools and insights that help them act proactively, not reactively.”

MICHELIN Connected Fleet contributed to the discussion with a live customer case study, demonstrating how fleet management solutions support operators in meeting the elements of the RTMS standard and improving safety outcomes. Through customer voice, it became clear that many operators still rely on manual processes, creating opportunities for automation. In response, the demo introduced new capabilities such as digital vehicle checks and smart jobs management, practical tools that streamline compliance and safety practices as part of their Connected Truck solutions. By combining compliance monitoring with actionable insights, operators are better equipped to prevent risks and achieve sustainable performance improvements.

Dr. Paul Nordengen, Director at RTMS, added:

‘’Compliance with the RTMS standard is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about

promoting safer and more efficient road freight and passenger transport and

more responsible businesses. Workshops like this help operators, regulators, and

industry partners share knowledge and drive meaningful improvements across the

sector’’.

Sessions explored how adopting RTMS certification and aligning with PBS standards not only ensures compliance with regulatory frameworks but also directly contributes to road safety. Through responsible fleet practices, covering driver wellness, vehicle standards, and load management, operators can strengthen operational performance while protecting people and goods on the road.

The event reinforced the collective responsibility of all stakeholders, operators, insurers, regulators, and consultants to support South Africa’s journey toward safer, more efficient transport.