By Ian Lockwood
May 12 2005

David Coulthard has been speaking to Autosport to voice concerns over the lack of adequate medical and emergency facilities during Formula 1 test events.

David Coulthard, one of four Directors of the Grand Prix Drivers Association, has said that both he and his fellow drivers are becoming increasingly concerned at the lack of sufficient marshalls and top quality medical facilities available at test sessions.

Whilst the facilities at F1 races are regulated by the FIA, test sessions are not regulated, merely having to take place at circuits that meet FIA approved safety standards. This means that run-off areas have to be of a certain size, and access around the circuit must be up to scratch, but there is no governance of the number of marshalls or doctors at given points around the track. Where during a race you might find a team of marshalls, fire crews and a doctor at a particular corner, the following week during a test there may just be one unpaid marshall with a small fire extinguisher.

During a test session the speeds are the same as during a race, but there are added dangers. By its very nature teams are testing unknown and unproven parts for the first time. This seasons rules have increased the risks even more. Because engines and tyres have to last longer than ever before, teams are doing much longer stints and more laps, leading to increased driver fatigue. DC said "I know that all my biggest accidents have happened in testing"

Coulthard is the only driver to publicly voice the concerns so far as most other drivers are reluctant to be seen to be rocking the boat within their teams and causing potential political conflict with the FIA. Many drivers echo DC's sentiments though in off the record conversations.

One such driver said "I was once told by Sid Watkins: 'Don't worry, you can be gone for four minutes & we can still get you back'. To be honest, I don't really want to be dead for four minutes just because a marshal can't get to me fast enough."