The highways are more crowded than ever today. Heavy truck and tractor-trailer drivers spend significant amounts of time hauling freight over the nation's roadways. As a result, their exposure to vehicle accidents is substantially higher than for the majority of drivers. It is incumbent upon your company to establish a comprehensive truck driver to minimize the risks to your company and drivers.
Instructions
Program Development
1. There are several websites which offer a wealth of information regarding heavy truck and tractor-trailer safety. Local, state, and federal laws govern all of the rules of the road. When you develop a truck safety section for your overall safety program, consult the Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Program. It covers rules and regulations, guides for program topics, and all of the issues relevant to the trucking industry.
2. Perform background checks on all prospective drivers. Even if your drivers are residents of several states, contact each driver's Department of Motor Vehicles and request a report of their driving record. It doesn't matter if they have violations when "off the clock." One's personal is an indication of their overall driving habits and a driver with a poor record is a greater risk to your company. These records will affect your insurance, as well.
3. Train your employees. They need to be very aware of the rules of the road, defensive driving techniques, and the way their trucks handle under all driving conditions. Drivers need to be able to demonstrate proficiency in all of these areas. Much of their knowledge, skills, and abilities comes from experience. However, regular recurring classroom training as a refresher will keep them up to date in all categories.
4. Create a documented driver's checklist that is relevant to the company's operations. Include on the driver's checklist all of the pre-departure safety requirements they're to perform. It should include a general sign-off that the equipment inspection has been completed. It should also have an acknowledgment that all paperwork is in order, including the driver's log and manifest. Make drivers accountable for their work by requiring a signature on the driver's checklist, which is turned into the company's Safety Manager daily.
5. Create a documented truck checklist. Your equipment checklist should be a comprehensive list of safety inspections of the vehicle. Be certain to include checks of all fluid levels, electrical system, lighting, horn, braking system, tires and all other systems that are critical to the safe operation of the truck.
Tags: driver checklist, your company, Create documented, driving record, rules road, safety program