Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1009631
palletcentral.com PalletCentral • July-August 2018 31 Fostering Safe Drivers It is not hyperbole to say the safety of a fleet and the success of a business rests in the hands of employees. As outlined in the written fleet safety program, driver selection is the foundation of accident prevention. In addition to processes like medical screenings and license checks, there are a few other steps you can take to ensure you hire safe drivers. Review job applicants' MVRs and look for red flags like frequent violations and DUI citations. Employee screening should also include ride-alongs, which give the manager a sense of the driver's day-to-day behavior like seat belt use and hard braking. All new employees should meet the driver guidelines outlined in the fleet safety program. Screening doesn't end with hiring, though; existing employee drivers should also be monitored. Implement a drug screening program, with drug testing performed pre-employment, post- accident, randomly and following reasonable suspicion. Also consider creating a driver safety incentive program that rewards safe driving behavior. Regular observation, whether through a dash cam or following a driver, can provide additional information about driving habits. Provide the drivers feedback and conduct additional training if necessary. Drivers with poor driving performance should be observed more frequently. Furthermore, it is important for managers to check MVRs regularly. Tools like Samba Safety provide real-time monitoring of these records. A defensive driver training program is a key component of preventing accidents. Such training programs address the effects of drugs and alcohol on driving, the dangers of distracted driving, as well as how to handle fatigue and dangerous road conditions. Employers should be sure their drivers are educated on basic safe driving tenets, such as maintaining an adequate following distance and anticipating potential hazards. Fortunately, there are many established, trusted driving techniques and programs like the Smith System or the National Safety Council's Defensive Driver Training. If an employee is involved in an accident, employers can review the incident with an internal accident review committee. All of these processes, procedures and policies should be documented in addition to what is required to be in compliance with DOT standards. In the event of an accident and insurance claim, it can demonstrate your driver safety due diligence. Files on each driver should include: • Written application, reference checks and interview notes • Driver qualification standards • Police record check and initial/annual MVR It is impor tant for managers to check MVRs regularly. Tools like Samba Safety provide real-time monitoring of these records. iStockphoto.com/welcomia