Tag Archive for: COVID-19

The PMTC (Private Motor Truck Council) has worked to clarify ArriveCAN as it pertains to Trucking: 

As you know, The Government of Canada has utilized various tools at its disposal to help limit the spread of COVID-19 across the border. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CBSA has been working closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and other federal partners along with provincial partners to ensure that the required measures to limit and reduce the spread of the virus into Canada were put into place. As the situation evolved, so did the CBSA posture. The Agency has continued to increase these measures on the advice of PHAC to help mitigate and contain the spread of the virus.

Submitting your information 


Accordingly, as of February 21st, 2021 at 11:59:59 PM, it will be required for all travelers to submit their information electronically before or when entering Canada. Commercial transporters will continue to be able to submit the mandatory information before or when entering Canada. For travelers who have not submitted their information in advance, they will be asked to provide it on entry.

While it is not mandatory for the information to be submitted in advance of crossing the border at this time, the use of ArriveCAN for travelers to submit their information in advance of the border is strongly recommended. ArriveCAN is a secure and user-friendly tool to help travelers comply with Canada’s enhanced border measures. ArriveCAN is available as a free mobile app available for download from Google Play or the App Store or by signing in online via Canada.ca/ArriveCAN.

We understand that not all truck drivers will have access to the ArriveCan App at this point and so I would like to remind you that Travellers can either use the mobile App or sign in online on any personal computing device (e.g. tablet) to use the non-app version of ArriveCAN.  https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/arrivecan.html

If you don’t submit your information…


Moreover, rest assured that Canadian citizens, who don’t submit their information through ArriveCAN, will not be denied boarding or entry at the land border, but may:

  • face additional delays at the border for public health questioning;
  • be subject to enforcement action.

Foreign nationals essential workers such as commercial truck drivers will not be denied entry if they do not have their ArriveCAN submission as long as they meet the requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

Operational guidance has been provided to our front-line officers in this regard, as well.

As we have more information on the next steps, the Government of Canada will be sure to engage with the industry to allow for the appropriate measures are in place to allow for a seamless implementation, to the greatest extent possible.

Thank you and your members for your/their ongoing efforts throughout the pandemic.

For More Information 


To receive further clarity, we just had a phone call with CBSA officials. Below are some tips and guidance.

  1. If a driver does not have a device capable of downloading the ArriveCan App, they can access the web version from any device that has internet capabilities and sign in that way. The link to both is above and here. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19/arrivecan.html
  2. A driver may enter their information into the ArriveCan App before they begin their trip out of the country. As an example, they are leaving Winnipeg on Sunday to go to Laredo, Tx. The driver can log in to App, enter their travel information and other required information before they leave Windsor. The info entered is valid until they begin their next trip out of the Country.
  3. Although you are required to enter your travel information, contact info etc, as you are an essential worker, you will not be required to complete the quarantine portion of the ArriveCan App questionnaire.
  4. In conversations with CBSA, they have ensured us that operationally their directive remains the same, to help facilitate the industry towards compliance. They are not looking to begin laying fines right out of the gate, but instead educate our drivers and our industry towards compliance. That being said, officers do have the capability of laying fines as off Monday, so although unlikely, it is possible.
  5. As mentioned in the message above from CBSA, Canadian Drivers and foreign nationals will not, and cannot be refused entry into Canada.
  6. This ruling and requirement does affect all US Drivers/citizens who are entering Canada as well. US Drivers/citizens will need to download the ArriveCan App, or use the Web version, prior to entering Canada, the same as a Canadian Truck Driver. The one exception is, if the driver is a US Citizen, they can be denied entry into Canada for not complying with the act.

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BREAKING: VACCINATION TRANSPORT INFO YOU CAN’T MISS

Hello again! Lindsay Presley here, Industry Marketer at Infinit-I. I have some very exciting news to share with you all.

Engage Bootcamp


If you were not able to attend our first-ever Remote Engage Bootcamp, you truly missed an amazing event full of expert advice, strategic development tools, and professional networking.

Expert Advice

Special ‘Thank you’ to Attorney Peyton Inge, Certified Safety Professional Phillip Wigginton, Award-Winning Safety Director Alisa White, and our very own Craig Hart, Mark Rhea, and Nakisha Luckey. You all brought actionable, timely, and relevant information to our attendees along with advice that will change the industry as we know it.

Strategic Development Tools

The strategic development tools were a huge hit! I heard from several attendees say they couldn’t write fast enough to keep up with all the key takeaways. If you missed Bootcamp, don’t worry, just shoot me an email. Lindsay.Presley@verticalag.com I will gladly send you copies of one or all the tools:

  • Engage Action Plan Workbook
  • Day 1 – Insurance Benefit Calculator
  • Day 2 – Opportunity Cost Formulas
  • Day 3 – Crash Response Checklist
  • Day 4 – 2021 Game-plan

Feel free to use these tools however is most helpful for you.

If you did come to Bootcamp, but missed something, or would like to circle back, ask me for the replay link.

For those who were unable to attend but would like to experience Engage and Infinit-I, let’s make a deal. Simply request a demo, ask Lorenzo for access to Bootcamp, and I will make sure you get an all-access pass to every, single, inspiring, motivational, actionable moment of our first-ever Remote Engage Bootcamp!

Professional Networking

The networking was my favorite part. I truly appreciate the opportunity to connect with other professionals through email, the daily live Q&A sessions, and, of course, the chat window. We talked, we laughed, we connected. Thanks to everyone who attended and made Bootcamp an unforgettable experience!

Just look what they said about Engage:


“Thanks for the training! I love to stay on top of safety topics, and it was great to network with other safety directors to get ideas on how to implement a better program in my office!”  

– Katie Wathen Director of Safety, Robbie D Wood, Inc.

“Today was AWESOME!  The content was spot on.  Cody and I are getting all kinds of ideas to share with upper management!  Thank you for having us.” 

– Renea Dearing Safety Director, Norton Transport

 

Fast Forward Series: Industry Expert Series


After an extremely successful Engage Bootcamp in November, we are back to work on our Fast Forward Series: Looking Ahead with Industry Expert Series.

In this Expert Roundtable Series, we have covered absolutely everything you need to know. My favorites, in no particular order, include:

WOW! After reviewing all these special guests and topics, even I am impressed. And I was there!

Up Next


We are bringing you, perhaps, the most interesting episode of them all. If you work in transportation and logistics, DO NOT MISS THIS EVENT!

Operation Warp Speed: As COVID-19 vaccinations become available for public consumption, truckers will become front-line heroes. Distribution is happening soon, and it will take all of us. Registration is open now.

Thursday, December 17, 2020 @ 10:30 am

Special Guest:

 Hosted by:

  • Mark Rhea, Industry Consultant
  • Infinit-I Workforce Solutions
  • And, me! Lindsay Presley, Industry Marketer
  • Infinit-I Workforce Solutions

Check out my LinkedIn here. And my group for Trucking Safety Professionals here. And of course, Infiniti Workforce Solutions here.

Ok, back to the event: Sit in with experts during this high-level overview of procedures, regulations, and industry-wide opportunities. We are packing so much information into this presentation, I am truly wondering if we can even get to it all.

HOT TOPICS:

  • – How, When, and Where?
  • – The Big Players
  • – What’s a truckload worth?
  • – Qualifications and Regulations
  • – Load Security Requirements
  • – Getting Involved
  • – Truck Driving Heroes

We have limited space to register. Again, I say: If you work in transportation and logistics, DO NOT MISS THIS EVENT! This will be an Expert Roundtable discussion with live Q&A.

Bring your notepad, bring your questions, bring your colleagues.

Click here to register. See you there!

 


About Lindsay

 

Lindsay Presley is an Industry Marketer at Infinit-I Workforce Solutions. Specializing in the trucking industry, Lindsay has spent her professional career studying and implementing industry best practices. Her positions have included: recruiter, dispatcher, fleet manager, corporate trainer, copywriter, and industry marketer. She knows every aspect of the business including managing front line drivers, insurance providers, executive management, sales, operations, HR, and training.

Lindsay has garnered her knowledge through extensive dealings in:

·         Tractor-Trailer ·         Over the Road
·         Reefer/Dry Van ·         Local
·         Medium Duty ·         Regional/Dedicated
·         HazMat ·         Student Transportation

 

Lindsay’s specialty is transforming the dispatcher & driver relationship, enhancing safety cultures, & training fleet operations. She lends her unique points of view to the Infinit-I Workforce Solution blog through years of front-line experience. Throughout her career, she states the most rewarding experience was supporting her favorite truckers: running miles and moving freight.

 

 

 

 

 

Brake Safety Week

Fast Forward Webinar Series – Infinit-I Workforce Solutions hosts a bi-weekly webinar series focused on delivering leadership skills to trucking companies in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Each webisode offers expert advice from industry leaders. Special guests include:

Hit The Brakes! Webinar – August 20, 2020


This week’s webinar was dedicated to Brake Safety Week and we can’t stop… talking about brakes! CVSA utilizes this week to detect maintenance issues regarding brake systems in commercial vehicles and educate drivers on proper requirements. During inspections, enforcement officers will take a close look at the braking system of every tractor-trailer they inspect to ensure highway safety.

Any vehicles found in violation of operational regulations will be placed out of service until the violation is corrected. Last year, 13% of CMVs inspected were found to have some type of regulation severe enough to warrant the vehicle nonoperational. This could mean a portion of your fleet could face a shutdown if the braking systems are not up to standard.

CVSA provides these education videos to help trucking companies prepare for Brake Safety Week. Please contact CVSA or Infinit-I Workforce Solution if you would like further information. Click here for information videos: CVSA Brake Safety Week “Inspection Bitz”

Inspection Bitz include:

  • External Brake Stroke Indicator – The US and Canada require pushrod stroke indicators. Make sure your indicators meet the regulation requirements.
  • Air Leak – Is your audible air leak a violation, OOS condition, or just a minor inconvenience? Learn how to detect, identify, and document audible air leaks before you’re placed out of service.
  • Caged Brake NAIC – Only to be applied after an air brake failure should not be used for normal operation. Arizona DPS explains operational requirements.
  • Plastic Hoses – Air tube chafing out of service identification.
  • Brake Adjusters – Identify whether your trailer has manual slack adjusters and whether they are in compliance.

Upcoming Webinars


Check out the schedule of upcoming webinars. Each participant will receive helpful tricks and best practices to not only survive but thrive throughout the rest of the pandemic and beyond. The schedule is listed below. Registration is always free.

September 10, 10:30 am CST

American Trucking Association – Industry Updates and International Road Check

September 17, 10:30 am CST

FMCSA Hours of Service – industry changes

October 1, 10:30 am CST

Dealing with Fog and Adverse Weather Conditions

October 15, 10:30 am CST

Intersection Awareness – Intersection Hazards for Drivers

October 29, 10:30 am CST

Reduce Critical Events that trigger reporting

Free Expert Safety Consultation


Future Infinit-I Workforce Solutions Clients: Click here for an expert safety consultation. In just 30 minutes, we can show you how to enhance your safety culture and create safer drivers.

More Articles


Spotted Lanternfly: Operating Without a Permit Could Cost You $20,000

What Your Drivers Need to Know About CVSA’s Upcoming Brake Safety Week

Nuclear Verdicts Entice Fraudsters in New Trucking Exploitation Scheme

Top 5 Surprising Ways Lawyers Attack Trucking Companies – Know Your Risk

 

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions proudly introduces Michael Shipman. Michael is an account executive with Infinit-I. He spends his days bringing in new businesses and overseeing renewals. His favorite part of the job, he tells us, is going out to visit the fleets.

At Infinit-I, we aim not only to provide stellar service, but also to build true relationships with our clients. By getting to know our clients, we can better understand their needs. That’s how we drive you to success.

As soon as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold, Michael began researching different ways to support his clients. As face masks were becoming scarcer, several smaller trucking companies were struggling to get their hands on any.

The Challenge


Michael has worked hard to build relationships with each of his clients. He sees his role not only as Account Executive, but also as a supportive player in the continuity of their business. The pandemic presented new challenges, however, in limiting the amount of face time with clients which he had become accustomed to.

Michael recognized this as a major issue. And as mass panic grew, it because increasingly difficult for truckers to perform their job duties. They were denied bathrooms and showers. They had to go hungry as fast-food restaurants closed their dining area.  Some were forced to sit on a load for weeks due to overwhelmed warehouse workers and piled up inventory.

The Motivation


Back in May, you couldn’t find masks, hand sanitizer, or gloves in any retail store. Even Amazon, the biggest retail store of all, was on backorder. America’s front-line workers were being dealt an injustice, especially if they couldn’t obtain the proper equipment, namely PPE.

That’s when Michael decided to step in and do something. He began searching for the needle in the haystack of medical supplies, face masks. The first struggle was, in fact, finding any available masks that he could get his hands on. Since they weren’t available in stores, he took a different route.

The Deal


The plan was simple, but the means were challenging. Thinking creatively, Michael contacted the American Trucking Association, with whom he had built a solid relationship throughout his five years with Infinit-I Workforce Solutions.

Michael explained intentions and desire to our ATA partners. The ATA felt compelled to get involved as well and arranged a deal. Michael was able to purchase face masks from the ATA’s inventory. Because of his dedication to overcome the improbable, he was able to purchase a shipment of face masks.

The Delivery


Since he was working from home at the time, Michael had several boxes of face masks delivered to his home. After counting, sorting, and organizing hundreds of KN95 masks, Michael was ready. Masked and prepared to social distance, Michael hit the road. He visited 8 of his 5-50 truck fleets across the state of Indiana. He took the proper precautions when visiting the terminals, as not to contribute to their exposure risk.

“We were trying to help fleets out because a lot of them weren’t able to get the supplies they needed, especially the smaller ones. We wanted to show our support, that we are by their side, and there for whatever they need” – Michael Shipman

You can watch the journey here.


Michael’s advice to those who want to help is simply to get involved. Search the internet for ways to give back to your hometown. Most state trucking associations hold events and drives to support truckers. You can also contact the American Trucking Association for further reference.

Thank you to Michael for your diligent effort in keeping your clients rolling. And thank you to America’s truck drivers. Your sacrifice and dedication to the job keeps us on our feet.

Drive safe and don’t forget to wear a mask.

Additional Resources


Top 5 Surprising Ways Lawyers Attack Trucking Companies – Know Your Risk

Chuck Norris Says “Thank You, Truckers!” In This Touching Video

Go Green: How Online Training Saves You Time, Money, and Resources

Increase Fuel Efficiency and Lower Maintenance Costs – Legislation Passed to Improve U.S. Highways

Chuck Norris

Kudos to Truckers! Thank you for keeping America going through the pandemic


The coronavirus has challenged sectors across America, but one sector has proven the lifeblood of the American economy and kept it going: American truckers. They have risked their own personal safety, and they have done a lot of hard work; keeping the U.S. economy rolling while putting products in motion to businesses across the nation. Without them, we’d be in for a lot of hurt.

Action Star Chuck Norris Thanks Truckers


Chuck Norris, an action star famous for his role in Walker Texas Ranger, recognizes the role that American truckers have played in keeping America supplied throughout the extended crisis. Norris teamed up with GP Transco, an American trucking carrier out of Illinois, to send a message of gratitude to those who have served on the frontlines of this crisis.

Norris even acted a role in the 1977 classic “Breaker! Breaker!” Chuck Norris continued in saying that without American truck drivers, we wouldn’t have medical supplies, food on the store shelves, or many of the other things that we require. Norris’s grateful message sends goosebumps up your arm.

 

Social Media: Thank a Trucker


Truckers have had such importance that social media has turned the gratitude spotlight toward them with the hashtag #ThankATrucker. These people have been the real heroes in the COVID-19 crisis among others, but we shouldn’t forget how they have helped us to stave off further disasters that could have caused greater harm.

Without truckers, we’d have empty shelves across the nation, and there would be people who would starve. It’d make our situation far more dire. We have seen people from diverse backgrounds on Twitter thanking truckers for their service. Team Penske, for example, was one example of a professional motorsports organization that was thanking truckers, and you had others as well like eCapital Corporation, Blackburn Energy, and even President Donald Trump has reminded America to thank truckers for keeping the United States moving.

Tough Job That Deserves a Thanks


TOUGH JOB THAT DESERVES A THANKSTruckers do a tough job, and many times, they don’t even receive recognition for it. They stay on the road sometimes for weeks or even months at a time away from family. Truckers work for up to 11 hours per day, day in and day out. This takes its toll, and we have to recognize the sacrifice that truckers make every day helping to keep the American economy in blossom. We have to salute those on the frontlines because, without them, our way of life would change greatly.

Many times, you see these harsh stereotypes about truckers that make people even look down on them, but if it wasn’t for truckers, we would have no food on our shelves or medical supplies in our hospitals right now.

Essential at All Times


One of the things that we should keep in mind is that truckers matter at all times. The work that they do matters, not just during a crisis. Without them, the American economy would grind to a screeching halt. An important thing that we have done has been to promote unity across the nation. We don’t want divisions at a time like this. You have many people who put their lives on the line with this pandemic, and they have done it selflessly to help other people.

We should also take the time to honor the other essential workers even above and beyond the truckers like:

  • Police officers
  • Grocery store workers
  • Hospital workers
  • Farmers
  • Home health aides

Everyone who has worked during the pandemic as an essential worker deserves recognition for their hard work and serving the nation in a time where it is vulnerable. As the coronavirus cases within the United States hit 4.11 million people, we have seen an increased risk that people will get exposed to it. Without taking the right precautions, this will harm our nation.

Who All Has Said Thanks to Truckers?


You have a few different businesses that have given their thanks to the truckers on our American highways. Some of the other businesses that have noticed what truckers do for America include:

  • Peterbilt Motor Co.
  • Pilot Flying J
  • TravelCenters of America
  • FMCSA
  • Bestpass

Essential to the Economy and Our Lives


What semi-trucks do for America is keep the economy rolling, but they also protect our lives because society couldn’t operate this essential job. We need people who can deliver the goods to businesses across the United States. You have short-haul truckers who might spend one night out on the road per week at a minimum, but you have other truckers who are known to spend months at a time out on American highways.

Running in and out of COVID-19 Hotspots


Truckers go everywhere. You’d be hard-pressed to identify a single place in the United States where truckers haven’t been. In fact, some have even gone into Canada and Mexico. The job takes you all over the nation, but during a pandemic, this means running in places where you might have a high number of COVID-19 cases. That increases the risk that you will catch COVID-19 while on the job, and these American heroes do it selflessly and without complaining.

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week


From September 13th to September 19th, we celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week in honor of the truck drivers who continue to operate on the road today. An estimated 3.5 million truck drivers on the road help to supply this demand, and not only do they deliver goods, they usually do it securely and on time. Americans in all 50 states have recognized the importance of truckers, and we have seen a number of things done for truckers. For example, you have kids passing out meals to truckers, and at other times, you have people holding signs that say, “I heart truckers.”

We love our trucker

How can we observe this week in honor of truckers? To show our appreciation, you might send a simple thank you note to a trucker. You’d be surprised what a simple thank you means to them. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week first began in 1998, and they have continued it ever since.

Awareness of Resources


During this time of difficulty, we should understand where to get the necessary resources as truckers. Groups like the Atlantic Provinces Trucking Association posts on social media about the different places that you can go to get takeout, showers, and laundry facilities. We want to go the extra mile to make things as easy for truckers as we possibly can during this time. We would not be able to survive the current crisis without the esteemed help of our brothers and sisters on the highway.

Some truckers have decided not to even come home because of how they fear that, with their job, they might bring something home to the family. That shows selflessness and commitment. A lot of truck drivers aren’t accustomed to receiving acts of kindness, so it can be unusual when they experience it from someone. Small gestures of kindness to our trucking brethren can go a long way to boosting their morale and making the long and lonely drive a little more comfortable than what it would have been otherwise. If you know a trucker in your life, please give them a thank you.

 

Thank you

Check out this great post dedicated to all the truck drivers that need some love so lets thank a trucker today

Guest Speaker Spotlight

Safe Driver Week is upon us once again; this year’s focus is speeding. The industry expects to see an increase in the number of citations and warnings issued this week compared to normal. Especially since excessive speeds have become common during the pandemic.

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions is working to support trucking companies throughout speed week by getting advice directly from the source. We assembled a panel of experts whose advice will drive us to success.

A live webinar will take place July 9th, 2020 at 10:30 am CT featuring the following speakers:

Mark Rhea, CDS  

  • Truck Transportation Executive, 34 years
  • Certified Safety Director (NATMI and TXTA)
  • Licensed CDL and CMV Inspector, Texas DPS
  • Freight/Logistics Advisory Board, Council of Governments for North Texas/Cedar Valley College
  • Commissioned Officer, U.S. Army
  • Trucking Industry Consultant

Christopher J. Turner, Esq.

  • Director of Crash and Data Programs, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance
  • Past President, CVSA
  • Former Kansas Highway Patrol Officer

Major Chris Nordloh

  • Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Coordinator, Texas DPS
  • 20+ years in the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Service of the Texas Highway Patrol
  • Secretary, CVSA

Their credentials alone should be more than enough to prove that you need to be here.

But if you need more proof, here you go:

Speeding


Looking for the most efficient way to slow your drivers down without sacrificing profitability? Keep talking about it.

Speed is a constant factor that takes continual adjustment. Your drivers must be hard-wired to think about speeding as soon as they climb in the tractor. There are two main reasons why a truck driver feels the need to operate at an excessive speed:

  • Indifference or Lack of training – Some drivers out there just don’t care about speed limits. And they will admit as much. When they see their speedometer reaching the upper limits, the only thing on their mind is, “more miles, more money.”

However, they fail to recognize that being pulled over for speeding or a traffic accident will slow them down. A severe accident could slow them down for days, if not forever.

  • Pressure from Dispatcher – The relationship between a driver and dispatcher requires a delicate balance of management, cooperation, and friendship. When the balance is disrupted, you may have drivers or dispatchers intentionally underperforming.

Are your dispatchers and drivers friends or simply acquaintances? It is difficult to maintain a healthy relationship over the phone or through dispatch messages. A healthy relationship will not only improve employee morale but will also enhance your safety culture. You will experience an increase in productivity when everyone is committed to working together.

And Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has two solutions:

  • – Our 850+ training videos are an effective way to drive the right behaviors over time. It has been proven that frequent and consistent training keeps safety top-of-mind.
  • – Infinit-I Workforce Solutions offers a 52-week course that focuses directly on improving the relationship of your drivers and dispatchers. You will see immediate results in communication and cooperation with The Dan Baker Cultural Relationship Program. Learn more here.

Seatbelts


Is there ever an excuse to operate sans-seatbelt?

Simple answer: NO!

We know it’s illegal. We know it’s unsafe. We know the likelihood of injury or death is much higher without one. So why do some drivers choose to go without? Accountability.

“I didn’t know I was supposed to wear a seatbelt.”

How well do you think that would go over with a DOT officer, especially during Safe Driver Week? The good news is: Infinit-I Workforce Solutions recognizes this as a real, conquerable issue. We have training ready and available to be assigned today.

Our learning management system will allow you to assign training videos based on the areas of your company you would like to strengthen. We will automatically track all training, testing, and acknowledgment in our database. You will have immediate access to all your training records anytime, anywhere.

Cellphones


Since the adoption of touch screen technology, large truck occupant fatalities have maintained an upward trend. Correlation, in this case, may not necessarily mean causation. We do know, however, that mobile phone usage is a huge problem.

Officers will be on the lookout for “cellphone drivers” during the blitz. Make sure your drivers are aware of your company’s cell phone/mobile device policy as soon as possible.

Ideally, you would like to have their signature on file as proof of acknowledgment of your policy. This practice not only encourages safe driving, but also reduces your company’s liability in case of an accident. Readily available documentation will prove your due diligence and mitigate risk.


You MUST prepare for Safe Driver Week. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions already has a process in place to help you accomplish these goals. Don’t worry about developing a training plan, getting it approved, and maintaining participation after deploying it to your fleet.

We’ll do it for you.

An enhanced safety culture is just a few minutes away. Call today. We’ll walk you through it.

Keep Reading…


Gearing Up for Safe Driver Week; Preparing Drivers for Speeding Blitz

7 New Social Responsibilities of Truckers; COVID-19 + July 4th

Out-perform, Out-shine, and Out-grow your Current Safety Culture

Why A Positive Dispatcher & Driver Relationship is Key

What is Buy-In?


One of the most used and sought-after business phrases in the workplace today: Buy-In. When you have a project idea, but you are not a decision-maker, you must get the approval of higher-ups to go ahead.

Before the pitch, you must begin campaigning, gathering support from like-minded co-workers who share your vision for the future. Their support is called “Buy-In.”

Think about the process of starting a business. Most likely, you would need the financial support of investors. The first investor is usually the hardest to convince. Once you have a board of supporters, it is easier to get new ones to sign on.

Selling points


As with any business proposal, the pitch must include the top benefits of the product you wish to implement. Find the aspects of the product that will benefit your company the most and bring those to the presentation.

For instance, your decision-makers may be concerned about the additional workload with this new product. Focus on the redistribution of work that is offered by Infinit-I Workforce Solutions.

They may say the budget doesn’t call for an additional product. In that case, look for all the returns offered by the investment. For example, Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has been proven to reduce the number of accidents for clients.

One prevented accident could save a company thousands of dollars. In that case, the system pays for itself.

When the issue is budget-related, ask yourself what factors you examine when putting a price on your driver’s safety. How are those factors weighted?

Of course, this is a silly question. There is nothing more important than the safety of your fleet. When the return on investment is life or death, establishing a solid safety culture is paramount.

Push Back


When faced with changes, people naturally look for reasons to push back. Humans respect a routine. We feel most at ease when there are no surprises or new tasks to learn. Stepping out of one’s comfort zone is scary to some.

So, when pitching a new project, you will run into some nay-sayers who are not interested in advancing their skills but would rather coast through another day. Your safety culture, however, should never be diluted just so it appeals to those who are complacent.

“We wanted a well-rounded training program. Training dispatchers how to talk to drivers. Everyone has to understand the industry or there will be communication issues back and forth.”

-Larry Finley, Environmental Health & Safety Manager, White Arrow, LLC

As with any profession, employers tend to get the most push back from veterans of the industry. They will hear things like…

“We’ve never had to do this before.”

“I’ve never had an accident.”

Handling Objections


Of course, neither of these are qualifiers to skimp out on training. Accidents and incidents can happen at any moment, to anyone.

Experience managers plan for negative feedback. Try to think of every reason an employee might not want to participate. Prepare a rebuttal for each of them.

“I’ll quit before you make me do more training.”

This is, perhaps, the most challenging form of push back. Take a moment to realize the implications of this statement and how it threatens the quality of your safety program. If you have an employee that does not support the improvement and future direction of your company, you should reevaluate their position.

“There is an apex we want to shoot for. Value of training and the value of people and their safety. Do it right, do it safe, and treat everyone like a leader.”

-Jonathan Richardson, Director of Corporate Training, Martin Transport, Inc.

Mission Critical


Above all, you must prepare to counter uncertainties within your target audience. If your goal is to ensure the safety of your fleet, focus on frequent and consistent safety training.

Now, you can do it for free. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions is offering a Complimentary 30-Day Free Trial to help you gain the Buy-In you need to improve your safety culture.

“Safety training doesn’t just come from a vacuum; you have to start someplace… It’s a process that has to be addressed year-over-year with ownership…”

-Craig Hart, Product Manager, Infinit-I Workforce Solutions

Further resources and expert advice are available in the Infinit-I Workforce Solutions Fast Forward Webinar Series.

In other news: 

7 Steps to Get Safety Ideas Out of the Boardroom and Implemented Into Safety Culture

Why Enhanced Safety Culture is Your #1 Money Saver

Premier Safety Culture Advice

After a very informative webinar this week, we’ve decided to dive deeper into your strategic reopening. In case you missed the meeting, check it out here.

We spoke with Attorney Monica Narvaez about all the things employers should consider as employees return to work. While all her suggestions were thought-provoking, some were downright surprising.

Our expert advisory board has developed a checklist for Strategic Reopening. Use the checklist to determine which of these issues could be a potential threat or opportunity for your business and plan accordingly.

Here’s a breakdown and explanation of some things to consider while planning your reopening strategy.

CDC Flowchart


Download the CDC flowchart to determine if opening is an option for your business, school, or public space. This document asks yes or no questions to help you decide if reopening too soon will put your customers or employees at risk of infection.

OSHA Requirements


Research Osha requirements to determine your responsibilities in reopening. You are now liable for the health of your employees regarding COVID-19. Research your states employer requirements in sanitization, documentation, monitoring, and response planning.

Develop a Reopening Playbook


Have a plan in place before issues arise. Impromptu response can lead to emotional decisions.

Include Communication Plan – What information and how often will you communicate with your employees? The goal is to eliminate fear and doubt they may feel as not to hinder their work performance.

Determine Reassignment Structure – Does your business need to maintain its previous staffing structure? Many companies have focused on productivity and efficiency. In streamlining, they realized the cost-cutting potential of downsizing.

Identify Unemployment Triggers – If you do decide to reduce your workforce, check the Fair Labor Standards Act’s Fact Sheet regarding furloughed employees and pay reductions.

Work from Home Options – WFH options have the potential to drastically reduce your overhead costs. If employees are still as acceptably productive, it is worth looking at remote workstations as a permanent solution.

Health and Safety Considerations


Sanitization Plan – Before the mass return of employees, it is recommended to sanitize all office equipment, surfaces, floors, and bathrooms to limit the spread of germs.

PPE Requirements – Decide whether or not employees will be required to wear gloves, masks, etc. when returning to work. If you deem PPE necessary, your state may require you to provide it to your employees.

Cleaning Protocols – Determine what items need to be cleaned and how often. Think about commonly touched surfaces such as coffee pots, doorknobs, copy machines, time clocks, etc.

Health Requirements – Will you check your employees’ temperatures daily before they enter the building? What will you do if they have symptoms of COVID-19? Make sure you document all data and keep the information private.

Social Distancing Effort – To keep employees as comfortable as possible, make necessary accommodations to comply with social distancing protocols. Do not require employees to maintain a distance closer than 6 feet if it is not their choice. You can allow employees to spread apart their workstations or provide plexiglass barriers to protect them from airborne spread.

Employee in Contact with Positive TestThe CDC recommends that anyone in contact with a positive COVID-19 patient should stay at home and practice social distancing. Employers should notify everyone there has been a potential for contact so they can self-monitor for symptoms.

Employee Tests PositiveAccording to the CDC, that employee should self-isolate and follow the CDC recommended steps. Employers must inform their employees of possible exposure to COVID-19. You may not, however, reveal the identity of the employee who tested positive.

Develop a Response Plan


Staffing Level Changes – Assess the level of productivity achieved after layoffs and furloughs. Adjust your staffing level accordingly

Re-instate vs. Re-hire – Furloughed employees can simply be reinstated. Laid-off employees will need to be re-hired.

Decrease/Increase Wages – Some employees are currently making more money on unemployment benefits than they did when working. It may be necessary to increase wages to encourage them to come back to work.

Refusal to Return to Work – Know your rights as an employer. If you offer a laid-off employee their job back and they refuse, they may no longer be eligible for unemployment.

Re-establish Benefits Level – Will employees that are hired back be eligible for the same health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off plan as before?

Create Rationale to support Layoffs – Use what you learned to base your rationale on what job duties are still necessary. Some job duties may no longer be necessary.

Determine Severance Payouts – Consider whether WARN or COBRA apply. By state, some employees have a right to severance or paid leave accrual payouts.

Moving Forward


Preparation for Second Wave – If you did not have a business continuity plan before the pandemic, create one now. If you did have a continuity plan, examine what worked and what needs to be improved.

Shelter in Place #2 – You now have a better idea of what positions in your company are essential and which ones are not. If the country is hit with a second shelter in place order, act quickly to transition essential employees back to remote work.

New Essential Employees – Do your essential employees have the technology required for extended remote work. Make accommodations for data storage, cybersecurity protections, and any other reasonable requests.

Renegotiating Contracts – Consider any employment contracts to consider, renegotiate, or terminate. There may be collective bargaining agreements in place that need to be followed.

Legal Precautions


COVID-19 Worker’s Comp – Employees are still covered for injuries at home under Workers Compensation and OSHA. In some states, if an employee contracts COVID-19, it will be immediately assumed to have been contracted at work. They will be entitled to Worker’s Comp.

OSHA – Negligence – You must be aware of all state requirements. Know your liability, follow guidance and torts for negligence.

Whistleblower Response – Create a response plan if you are accused of not providing the required PPE, requiring non-essential employees to work, or having previous knowledge of known hazards.

Extras


For more information, replay the Infinit-I Workforce Solutions webinar entitled Navigating the Unknown.

You can download this easy-to-read checklist that will help you keep track of your strategic reopening. Use it for your business or send it to your manager.

 

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Remembering Those Who Are Gone And Dedicated To Keeping Others Safe

In honor of Memorial Day, the team at Infinit-I Workforce Solutions would like to thank all members of our armed services. We stand with you.

We express our sincere gratitude to the ones who are no longer with us; the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may be free.

Thank you for your service.

Also, a huge thank you to all the truck drivers over the road who spend countless hours away from their family and friends to support their fellow Americans. You are the backbone of the supply chain.

Memorial Day weekend poses a higher risk for truckers because of road construction, the influx of traffic, and increased fatality rate.

Road Construction

Not only are traffic fines increased in construction zones, so is the risk of fatal accidents. In fact, a whole week in April is dedicated to raising awareness because construction zones are so dangerous.

State DOTs, road safety organizations, government agencies, and private companies come together every year to present National Work Zone Awareness Week. Their goal is to save lives, reminding all drivers to use caution, especially when encountering work zones.

In 2018, 34% of fatal work zone related crashes involved the death of a professional driver. Often, preventable actions cause these crashes such as improper following distance, distracted driving, excessive speeds, etc.

The confusion and frustration that exists in construction zones is normal for truck drivers. They encounter work zones frequently due to the nature of their job.

Keep in mind, four-wheelers are responsible for most CMV accidents. The truck driver and/or the company can still be taken to court, however, even though it’s not their fault.

Influx of traffic

As the summer begins, Memorial Day kicks off road trips, family vacations, and parties. We’ve all been stuck at home, slowly going stir crazy. Shelter in place recommendations have been relaxed as we enter a long-awaited 3-day weekend.

While the rest of the country practiced social distancing, truck drivers got used to less traffic  Drivers have been able to drive faster and deliver loads in a shorter amount of time.

Truckers need to be mindful that this weekend will bring people out of their homes. They will see a large increase in the amount of commuter traffic all over the country.

Increased Fatality Rate

Even though traffic has decreased over the past few months, motor vehicle fatality rates have gone up. The National Safety Council says the United States has seen a 14% increase in the number of fatal accidents since the quarantines started.

All drivers are taking advantage of the less congested roadways. Average speeds have increased, and as a result, this careless driving has caused more accidents.

Some states have seen massive increases in the number of driving fatalities. Arkansas’s number has increased by 16% compared to last year. Louisiana has experienced a 23% increase and Connecticut’s number skyrocketed by 42%.

“Disturbingly, we have open lanes of traffic and an apparent open season on reckless driving,”

Lorraine M. Martin, President and CEO of NSC encourages everyone to drive with caution, especially during the pandemic and crisis. She says driving safely is our civic duty.

“If we won’t do it for ourselves, we should do it for our first responders, our law enforcement and our healthcare workers, who are rightly focused on coronavirus patients and should not be overwhelmed by preventable car crashes.”

– Lorraine M. Martin, NSC president and CEO.

Experts’ Advice

The expert advisory board of Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has advice for trucking companies who are concerned about the health of their company. They have recommended the following best practices to ensure the safety of highways, truck drivers, and the general public:

Create a ‘first-in-class’ safety culture.

The goal of every safety department is to reduce accidents, reduce CSA, and ensure safety is always ‘top-of-mind’ for all employees. The best way to achieve this goal is consistent communication and frequent training.

 

Offer your truck drivers continual safety training.

One of the main challenges in the trucking industry is routing drivers to the terminal to attend safety meetings. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has virtually solved that problem for good.

The learning management system allows companies to deliver personalized safety training to any employee, anytime, anywhere.

 

Test their retention.

You may be thinking, “How do I know if my employees will pay attention to these safety videos?”

Great question!

On the LMS, you have the option to make them take a test on the content. Users cannot skip the video or halfway pay attention because they will have to start over if they fail the test.

 

Document everything.

If you’re working in the logistics industry, you’ve heard it a million times: “If it isn’t documented, it didn’t happen.”

In most legal cases involving CMV accidents, the first thing a litigation attorney asks for is the safety training records of the driver involved.

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions offers automatic, electronic reporting and tracking. You never have to worry about sign-in sheets or completion record signatures ever again.

 

At Infinit-I Workforce Solutions, we are so grateful to all those who work hard to keep the American dream alive and well.

Please take extra caution this weekend so your family’s next Memorial Day won’t be in honor of you.

 

Truck drivers know the rules of the road and how to operate safely. One surprising fact: most CMV accidents are caused by the passenger vehicle and not the trucker.

What is Memorial Day?

For some, Memorial Day this long weekend calls for grilling and outside activities. For others, it meant everything.

Memorial Day is a federal holiday that reminds us to remember those who have sacrificed their lives while serving in the military. Their dedication has secured our safety and freedom; and today we honor them.

To all veterans and active duty: Infinit-I Workforce Solutions thanks you for your service!

To the families and friends of those who died: We thank you for your support of our armed services and stand with you to honor their memory.

 

Accident history on Memorial Day

You may be wondering if it is more dangerous to travel on Memorial Day weekend. Of course, any increase in traffic will increase the likelihood of accidents. This year, there are some extra contributing factors to keep in mind:

Shelter-In-Place lifted + Holiday Weekend + Warm Weather = Recipe for Disaster

In 2018, Memorial Day traffic fatalities accounted for 12% of all traffic fatalities in the month of May. Throughout the year, traffic fatalities average about 100 per day. It is estimated that up to 410 traffic deaths could occur this Memorial Day weekend.

Do your part to reduce that number.

This Memorial Day poses new threats because of the social distancing restrictions we have been facing. Some people may be willing to stay home longer, while others are craving social activities.

Here are some tips to follow so that next year, your family’s Memorial Day won’t be in honor of you.

 

1. Identify Impaired Drivers:

A minivan full of screaming toddlers. Mom and dad are stressed. Kids are stir-crazy. They haven’t left the house in two months. It is best to avoid driving alongside them.

Jacked up pickup truck with a bed full of coolers, canoes, and innertubes. His music is blaring, he’s throwing back a cold one. You don’t know if he is on his way to the river or if he’s already been drinking there all day. Let him pass.

Cars full of teenagers blaring graduation music because now that is their only option. Their lives have been turned upside down, just like the rest of us. And they are missing out on some key rites of passage like graduation and prom. Give them some space.

 

2. Look for potential road hazards:

That Jacked up Pickup truck is now throwing empty cans out of the window. His rebel without a cause attitude is dangerous for everyone around him. Do not engage. And maybe, call the police.

That car full of teenagers is about to miss an exit and cut you off. They always do.

Family of deer standing innocently by the road. They are not innocent. In 2019, West Virginians had a particularly hard time with deer. 1 in 38 drivers were involved in a collision caused by an animal.

 

3. Protect yourself

As much as you want to, do not text “Happy Memorial Day” while driving. Your friends and family will be just as happy to receive texts and calls from you during your break.

People forget how to merge during the holidays. They will be rushing to get home after a long day on the water or with their inlaws. Watch for that.

Constructions zones are everywhere and potentially dangerous, always slow down.

Get plenty of rest.

 

4. Do extra during your Pre-trip Inspection

The weather is getting warmer, check and double-check your tires and fluid levels. Heat from the weather and from the road can cause tires to expand. Too much pressure can cause poor handling or even blowouts.

If you can’t see, always get out and look when backing, parking, taking off, etc.

Clean your windshield. The glaring summer sun can significantly decrease visibility, especially if the window is smudged or dirty. Avoid truck stop squeegees if the fluid is dirty. Some professional drivers recommend alcohol as the best way to get a spot-free clean.

 

5. Protect others

Always use blinkers, lights, and horn when necessary.

Use hazard lights to warn the people behind you that traffic is slowing ahead. Many rear-end collisions and pile-ups occur because drivers weren’t aware of slowing traffic ahead.

If you must stop on the shoulder, use your emergency kit to warn oncoming traffic.

 

Truckers know that missing holidays with friends and family is just part of the gig. Make sure you get back to them in one piece.

And to truck drivers: Thank you for everything you do over the road.

Share this article with the truckers in your life. Let’s work together to keep each other safe.

 

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