How to Create a Company Driver Safety Program
If you work as part of a trucking business, you already know that you probably have plenty to keep you busy. Making sure all of your drivers follow safety protocol and managing any accidents can be a big part of running a fleet of trucks and truck drivers.
You’ll want to put together a well thought-out communication and training plan, otherwise known as a safety program. Here are some steps or ideas you may want to include in your company driver safety program:
1. Review of your company fleet
2. Training on your safety processes
3. Documentation of your new hire’s trucking knowledge
Company Driver Safety Program Tip #1: Review of Your Company Fleet
During the on-boarding of a new driver, there can be a lot to look at. When it comes to your safety program, be thorough so your driver can understand every detail.
First, talk about your company fleet. With this information, your new hire should be aware of how many people work for the company. He should be able to see how his position is one of the team and how his actions could impact the rest of the fleet. The review of your fleet could include:
• How many drivers your company has
• Where they most often travel
• What vehicles they drive
• Company accident information
• Safety goals
New hires should have a well-rounded view of your company and drivers, and goals for each.
Company Driver Safety Program Tip #2: Training on Your Safety Processes
Thorough truck driver safety training involves different kinds of learning. Try different ways like printed materials, meetings, presentations, and online training when planning out your training sessions for a new driver. Focus on things like:
• Fleet safety rules
• Truck fleet safety policies
• Defensive driving policies
• Hours of service
• Vehicle inspections
• Accident procedures
• Security procedures
• Personal safety policies
• Driver responsibilities
• Performance evaluations
Include details about what happens when a driver violates safety policies. Also talk about any ways your company rewards safe drivers.
Keep in mind that on-boarding can be a process, rather than a singular event. Regular meetings may be necessary to keep safety policies on everyone’s mind.
Company Driver Safety Program Tip #3: Documentation of Your New Hire’s Trucking Knowledge
After your new hire has finished the training, document their completion. Have them sign paperwork stating that they understand the safety processes and let them know what will happen if they fail to stay safe on the road.
It may be a good idea to make sure new hires complete your training program, which includes information on proper safety standards before they get behind the wheel.
One of the first steps to safely operating a truck may be looking into CDL training. At NETTTS, students can study Class A CDL and Class B CDL programs. Contact NETTTS to find out more or learn how to enroll.