Zero Vision

By: Safety and Zero Vision Committee, Iranian Scientific Association of Health, Safety and Environmental Management and Engineering (HSEME)

What is the Zero Vision for Reducing Casualties?

Zero Vision, often referred to as "Vision Zero," is a strategy aimed at eliminating fatalities and serious injuries on the road. It emphasizes that any death or severe injury in traffic is unacceptable and can be prevented through effective policies and infrastructure changes.

Concept of Zero Vision

The concept revolves around the belief that traffic accidents are not inevitable but rather preventable. It promotes a proactive approach to road safety, encouraging stakeholders—governments, organizations, and communities—to implement measures that prioritize human safety. This includes better road design, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and public education campaigns.

History of Zero Vision

• Origin: The Vision Zero movement originated in Sweden in the late 1990s. The Swedish government, recognizing a high rate of road traffic deaths, established a road safety policy based on the principle that human life and health should not be compromised by the need to make travel more efficient.
• Global Adoption: Following Sweden's success, many other countries and cities have adopted similar policies. Over the years, various municipalities have seen reductions in traffic fatalities by implementing Vision Zero principles.

Philosophy of Zero Vision

The philosophy of Zero Vision is built on several key principles:

1. Human-Centric Approach: Recognizes that humans are fallible and that the road system should be designed to accommodate human error.
2. Shared Responsibility: Emphasizes that all stakeholders—government, drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists—share the responsibility for road safety.
3. Data-Driven Solutions: Advocates for the use of data to identify high-risk areas and implement targeted interventions.
4. Comprehensive Strategy: Encourages a holistic approach that combines engineering, enforcement, education, and engagement to improve road safety.
5. Long-term Commitment: Aims for sustained efforts over time, recognizing that cultural changes in how society views road safety are necessary for lasting impact.

By fostering a culture of safety, Zero Vision seeks to create a future where road traffic deaths and serious injuries are effectively eliminated.

Importance of Zero Vision

1. Saving Lives: The primary goal is to reduce traffic fatalities and serious injuries, making roads safer for everyone.
2. Public Health: Traffic accidents contribute significantly to public health issues, including trauma and long-term disabilities. Reducing these incidents enhances community well-being.
3. Economic Benefits: Fewer accidents lead to reduced healthcare costs, lower insurance premiums, and decreased economic losses due to injuries and fatalities.
4. Sustainable Mobility: Promotes safer, more reliable transportation options, encouraging people to use walking, cycling, and public transit, which can reduce congestion and pollution.
5. Cultural Shift: Fosters a mindset that prioritizes safety over speed and efficiency, encouraging responsible behavior among all road users.

Functions of Zero Vision

1. Policy Development: Guides governments in creating and implementing policies that prioritize road safety, such as speed limits, traffic laws, and urban planning.
2. Infrastructure Improvement: Promotes investments in safer road designs, better signage, and improved public transportation systems.
3. Education and Awareness: Raises public awareness about road safety through campaigns that inform drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists about safe practices.
4. Data Collection and Analysis: Encourages the collection and analysis of traffic accident data to identify trends, high-risk areas, and effective interventions.
5. Collaboration and Partnership: Facilitates collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations, to share resources and strategies.
6. Monitoring and Evaluation: Establishes frameworks for tracking progress, evaluating the effectiveness of safety initiatives, and making necessary adjustments.

By focusing on these functions, Zero Vision aims to create a comprehensive approach to road safety that ultimately leads to safer communities.

In summary, Zero Vision represents a holistic approach to road safety, aiming to foster a culture that prioritizes human safety and ultimately leads to safer communities.