Active vs. Passive Safety: What’s the Difference?

The safety of employees and the people your company driver(s) may encounter on daily basis is a critical component of many businesses. In that same vein, chances are you’ve read about or heard the terms ‘active’ and ‘passive’ safety when researching options for your fleet or personal vehicle. What is the difference between ‘active’ and ‘passive’ safety equipment? Here’s an overview.

What is Active Safety?

Active safety features help to minimize the chance of accident or malfunction before they occur. Another way to think of it is that active safety means engagement and notification. These are often electronic, computer controlled components that are continually working to keep your fleet, drivers and the public, safe.

Examples of active safety equipment can include:

• Built in anti-lock break system (ABS) or traction control
• Proximity (parking) sensors
• Pressure monitoring systems
• The alarm that notifies pedestrians and other vehicles that you are backing up
• Blind spot detection cameras and/or sensors
• Hazard/warning indicator lights

And more…

What is Passive Safety?

Passive safety equipment helps to minimize catastrophe (i.e. injuries and/or death) in the event something does go wrong. Alternatively, you may find it easier to define of passive safety as a system that monitors, and then engages on an as-necessary basis.

Examples of passive safety equipment might include:

• Fuel pump kill switch
• Airbags
• Seat belt lock engagement

And more…

We offer a variety of active and passive safety systems from a number of manufacturers. Unsure of what may help your business? Really want to say hi? We are at your service —just click here.