Tag Archive for: driver safety tips

HOT HOT HOT! Sunshine Threatens Truckers. Here’s What Your Fleet Needs to Know

Sunshine Threatens Truckers

Its that time of year again. HOT! And it won’t be getting better any time soon. Heat-related illnesses affect truck drivers often due to the nature of the job.

Loading, unloading, throwing tarps, strapping, etc. all cause extended exposure to the heat. Operations managers must be aware of the risk their drivers are taking by working in the sun and extreme temperatures.

While assessing the risk, managers should create a response plan to be followed in the event of a heat-related illness. Familiarize yourself with the following information so you can create a solid plan to be deployed between your operations staff and drivers.

Truck Drivers are some of the hardest working people in the country. Along with road safety, we here at Infinit-I Workforce Solutions would like to offer some health safety tips.

Please be mindful of the following challenges you or your drivers might face as the temperatures continue to rise:

Sun Related Illnesses

Heat Stroke

If you suspect you or someone near you are suffering from a heat stroke, call 911 or local emergency services. Heat Stroke (or sunstroke) is a medical emergency that causes lasting damage to the victim.

A person can suffer from heatstroke without prior symptoms. It strikes hard and fast from high-temperature exposure. Your body loses its ability to control its temperature, classified by a core temperature of more than 104. This syndrome can cause damage to internal organs.

Check here to study the symptoms before it happens to you.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat Exhaustion is a less severe issue, but if left unchecked, it can lead to heatstroke. It is usually caused by exposure to high temperatures and either dehydration or salt depletion.

Obviously, if you don’t drink enough water, your body will not stay hydrated. It is less known that if your sodium levels get too low, your body can not retain the water you do take in.

Dehydration

Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluid than you are drinking. Watch for the warning signs before it happens. Vomiting and diarrhea can often lead to dehydration if you can’t adequately replace fluids lost.

Heat Cramps

High temperatures lead to dehydration. Dehydration leads to cramps.

Be mindful of your nutrition and hydration levels, especially if you are loading/unloading, throwing tarps, or performing truck maintenance. Exerting yourself in the hot weather can lead to severe cramps.

Heat Rash

Heat Rash is marked by blisters or red bumps that often occur when sweaty skin meets friction. It is especially common in areas that aren’t able to breathe, like armpits, elbow crease, or chest.

While this condition is less severe than the above, it can cause much discomfort to the sufferer. If this happens to you, try to remain in a cool, dry place. You can use powder or antiperspirants to keep the rash dry.

Sun Burn

The pain of a fresh sunburn is all too familiar. It is always a good idea to wear sunscreen, even on a cloudy day.

All skin types are susceptible to sunburn, some may be more vulnerable at lower UV rates. If your skin starts to feel tight or retains heat, it is time to move to a shady area.

Repeated exposure to sunburn can also lead to skin cancer. If you work a job that constantly has you out in the weather, always wear some sort of skin protection.

Use this CDC chart to become familiar with the Warning Signs and Symptoms of Heat Illness.

Sun Related Illness Prevention

To Operations:

Check on your drivers daily. Watch their logs and make sure they are moving. If you see a driver has been idle for an unusual amount of time, be sure to get in contact with them immediately.

If contact cannot be made, you may have to employ an emergency intervention. Speak with your management about a plan before this becomes an issue.

Drink water

Drink water on a timer and consistently throughout the day, not just when you’re thirsty. Often, thirst is not a warning sign of dehydration, but a sign it’s too late.

Avoid alcohol

Obviously, if you’re a professional driver, you should avoid alcohol altogether. Alcohol can function as a diuretic, causing your body to get rid of the fluids that you need. That’s partly why people suffer from hangovers; alcohol causes dehydration.

Avoid sugary drinks

Sugary sodas, juices, and teas are also diuretics and can cause your body to lose fluids more rapidly than normal. In extreme temperatures, it is best to drink low- or no-caffeine, unsweetened drinks.

Idle time

Your employer probably has a policy in place about the amount of time you can idle. Running your air conditioner to stay cool is an important factor in your health and safety. Ask your Operations how often you can idle during the summer months, so you don’t put yourself at risk.

Take Breaks Indoors

During your pre-plan, check your shipper and receiver for a driver lounge. Do not stay in your tractor if it is not required.

Cool Showers

In extreme heat, it is best to avoid scouring shower temperatures if possible. Extended hot water exposure can raise your body temperature. If it is hot outside, your body has to work overtime to cool you back down.

Sunscreen

Make sunscreen a part of your daily routine to protect you from sunburn in the short term and skin cancer in the long term.

Friendly reminder: Drink water.

We have a responsibility to take care of each other. During the summer months, it is critical to know the warning signs of heat-related illness and be able to respond appropriately.

Make sure you have a specific plan in place for heat-related illness and a proper way to communicate that plan to all your drivers and operations staff.

If you do not have the ability to communicate a safety plan immediately, contact Infinit-I Workforce Solutions at 866-904-5087 to learn how we can help. Or request a free demo.

Other Helpful Articles:

Minimize Mistakes To Maximize Your Most Valuable Resource – Your Drivers

Driver Safety Tips for the Summer

5 Tips for Truck Driver Fatigue Management

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28 Things Employers Should Do While Employees Are Heading Back

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 Test – The 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 Positive – According 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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Insurance – COVID-19 impacts Premiums and Renewals

 

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Minimize Mistakes to Maximize your Most Valuable Resource – Your Drivers

Client Success Team

One of the biggest expenses a trucking company experiences is onboarding new drivers. Studies show that each new driver costs approximately $10,000 to recruit, onboard, and train. Retention becomes a huge factor in cutting costs.

Dan Baker’s Cultural Relationship Program teaches that improving the relationship between management, operations, and drivers creates a positive company culture that is the key to success.

A foolproof way to create a more loyal fleet is to encourage the cultural relationship between dispatchers and truck drivers. Both should understand how the other operates and be able to maintain open communication.

Money-making truck drivers love being dispatched on those loads that require you to travel 2,000 miles in 4 days. Loads with more miles ensure more money for the truck driver and their employer.

That is not always the case, however. Sometimes, there are no good loads to dispatch.

In the case of bad freight, look for other ways to improve efficiency. Use these tips from logistics leadership to maximize your most valuable resource, your drivers.

Average Trucker Pay

In 2019, the average pay for truck drivers was roughly $58,000, up from $52,000 in 2017. Truck drivers make about $10,000 more than the average earner. But everyone likes to earn extra money, right?

Creating an environment where your drivers will not only be successful, but will also thrive, will encourage loyalty and long-term retention. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions offers numerous training courses that will allow continual education of any size fleet.

Encourage Drivers Maximize Hours

Some truck drivers fully enjoy the rush of running the highways, maxing out their hours every day. Those drivers typically make the most money.

Some drivers prefer to take extended breaks, mosey around truck stops, sleep late, etc. All the time they spend idle is money lost for that driver and your company.

Make sure they understand the basics concepts of hours of service and set the expectation with this training course:

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions Training Catalog – Page 21 – CSA Hours of Service Basics

Interpreting the BOL

One of the worst things a trucking company can experience is OS&D. Overage, Shortage, & Damaged – This occurs when the freight amount is incorrect or damaged and the receiver will not accept the shipment.

While your company probably has insurance to protect you from losses, these claims take time. An OS&D incident can stop a truck for several days while a claim is being sorted. When you make money per loaded mile, an idle truck can cost your company a lot of money.

Make sure your drivers know how to read a BOL for every type of load they haul. As soon as they are loaded, they should have a thorough understanding of the shippers/receiver’s expectations and condition the load should arrive in.

This type of proactive training can save money and prevent loss of miles and revenue.

Trip Planning

Most truck drivers know the importance of trip planning, but some may not be able to execute a trip plan properly. Sharing these tips with your drivers will start a conversation about improvement.

  • Get to the destination city as quickly and safely as possible. It is always a good idea for a driver to put more miles on the front end of a trip. It is better for a truck driver to knock out 90% of the trip on pickup day than have too many miles left on delivery day.
  • If your receiver doesn’t penalize you for early loads, encourage drivers to check in early. Chances are, they will take your freight before the actual appointment, allowing your driver to move on to another load.
  • Avoid dispatching loads with too much time on them. It is always better to have a driver rolling than getting paid for sitting still.
  • You drivers should always check the entire route for big cities, business loops, high traffic areas, construction, and weather as soon as they are dispatched. They must be able to identify areas that may require a reroute. Encourage them to communicate those concerns with operations.
  • Eventually, the FMCSA’s HOS changes will allow drivers to take their 30-minute break while on duty. When in effect, drivers will be able to take their 30-minute break while fueling or being loaded/unloaded. Emphasis the importance of restful breaks, however. This is a tool to help drivers utilize their time more efficiently, not drive fatigued.

On-Time Delivery

Some truck drivers don’t understand the consequences of late delivery until its too late. Most receivers will consider late drivers a ‘work-in.’

Depending on their volume, that driver could be sitting for hours or even days waiting on an opening. This not only creates a loss of miles for the driver but also constitutes a loss in revenue for your company and compromises your reputation with that shipper and receiver.

Avoid Obstacles

Booking loads with unpaid deadhead can cost your company thousands of dollars of it happens too often. You should always negotiate empty miles with your customer. If not, look for backhaul loads. You may even reach out to brokerages to make up for the loss of revenue.

When booking loads, always check to confirm your driver will have enough time to deliver on time. Be aware of the distance of the trip, the route conditions, and the number of hours available to avoid a repower. Sending another driver to relay a load will only cost every person involved time and money.

Most importantly, encourage their safety. Drivers should be made aware that they don’t have to drive excessive speeds to make more money. The best way to improve your fleet’s performance is communication and continuing education.

Contact Infinit-I Workforce Solutions to find out how we can enhance your safety culture, improve your drivers’ behaviors, and save you money. Ask about your Complimentary 30-Day Trial!

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Remembering Those Who are Gone and Dedicated to Keeping Others Safe

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.

 

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Memorial Day Weekend – 5 Ways to Stay Safe On The Road

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.

 

More Interesting Articles:

5 Bright Future Forecasts for Truckers and How the Industry is Adapting to Coronavirus Challenges

 

FMCSA is Changing HOS… Again! 4 New HOS Rules

 

Uber Freight and CloudTrucks Give Truckers New Opportunities

 

8 Ways Truckers Relieve Stress During the Pandemic

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5 Bright Future Forecasts for Truckers

The trucking industry is no stranger to adapting to new policies and procedures. The Coronavirus pandemic has presented many challenges that have required rapid change across the industry.

Just as we were settling into the relaxed HOS regulations, they change again. Just as we got comfortable with the open roads offered by fewer cars, society starts going back to work.

The economy will soon begin its recovery as people return to normal. So, what does that mean for the future of trucking?

Job Market

The Coronavirus pandemic has closed the door on new drivers entering the market. Most states have required their driver licensing agencies to severely reduce operations. As many as seventeen states have shuttered them completely.

The President and CEO of the Commercial Vehicle Training Association states that nationwide, we are seeing a 40% decrease in March For the number of new CDLs issued. The CTVA forecasted the number of new drivers entering the market will be reduced by 90% for April and 70% for May.

Tenstreet, a recruiting website for truckers, says student hiring fell 35% in almost 2 months. The hiring rate for experienced drivers is down almost 30%

When these licensing agencies begin to open again, we will likely experience a surge in the number of new student drivers and trainees. An increased supply of truck drivers means driving jobs may become harder to find.

Traffic Increases

In an April 2020 release, the American Transportation Research Institute states 87% of survey respondents have experienced shorter traffic congestion delays. The roadways have been all but cleared due to the Coronavirus pandemic’s stay-at-home measures.

Average truck speeds have increased with fewer commuter vehicles on the road. Research shows truck drivers have been clocking average speeds as high as 25mph above normal.

While truckers have been enjoying open highways with fewer commuters, this trend won’t last too much longer. State governments are slowly lifting restrictions and shelter-in-place orders, eager to get back to normal.

Traffic booms are predicted as non-essential workers begin to rejoin the workforce and remote workers return to their places of business. As always, truck drivers should remain focused and keep safety on the top of their minds.

HOS changes

During the pandemic, truck drivers experienced a regulation that most had never even dreamed of. Hours of service regulations, enacted in the 1930s, were relaxed to accommodate the emergent needs of consumers.

There were stipulations, of course. Only those drivers hauling certain products under the emergency declaration were covered, but their HOS rules were almost completely nonexistent.

However, the regulation brought about some concerns from industry leaders. While it is vital for consumers to receive their necessary items in a timely manner, truck drivers’ lives should not be put at risk. Many safety managers have discouraged their fleet from driving over 11 hours, even though it was federally granted per emergency protocol.

Online Training

Thousands of trucking companies have been integrating online safety training for years. It is a much more convenient option for truck drivers. What once took hours of planning, routing, and dispatching to the terminal for an hourlong safety meeting has been simplified.

Users can attend safety training courses on their electronic devices from their sleeper, their home, or their favorite greasy spoon. Technology allows you to concentrate over coffee and a short stack, instead of snoozing through a town hall meeting while dreaming of getting back on the road.

Remote Orientations

In brainstorming solutions to Coronavirus challenges, Infinit-I Workforce Solutions offers remote online orientation. Trucking companies have realized the benefit of online orientation not only for themselves, but for their new drivers as well.

Much the same as online training, orientation can now be conducted through an LMS platform that offers flexibility and convenience to onboarding drivers.

Truck drivers are no longer required to sit through days of orientation for most companies that have taken advantage of online orientation.

Employers can now assign courses to drivers when they are hired on. Content usually ranges from driver handbooks, safety videos, orientation, etc.

Drivers receive all the information before they even head out to the terminal for their first day. Those resources are available to the driver at a moment’s notice throughout his tenure with that company.

No more worrying about finding your tossed aside handbook or losing your fuel book. It is all saved on your phone.

So, what is your best plan of action?

Get comfy with technology.

The movement has already begun from paper to computers, just like converting from paper logs to ELDs.  We are headed toward a future where all training and orientation content will be offered exclusively online.

 

 

More Interesting Articles:

FMCSA is Changing HOS… Again! 4 New HOS Rules

 

Uber Freight and CloudTrucks Give Truckers New Opportunities

 

8 Ways Truckers Relieve Stress During the Pandemic

 

CSA Score Reduction, How to Challenge FMCSA Crash Rulings

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FMCSA is Changing HOS… Again! 4 New HOS Rules.

It’s been difficult to adjust to all the changes released by the FMCSA lately. The trucking industry would never have predicted the DOT to relax hours of service regulations. And yet, here we are. Scrambling to research, read, and absorb all the legal jargon thrown our way.

A docket for the outline of the final ruling has been released. Revised HOS regulations will become effective 120 days after publication in the federal register. The actual date has not been released.

 What are the changes?

Pages 8-9 of the final ruling state the changes will include: The 30-minute Break, Introducing the 7/3 Split, Adverse Driving Conditions Exception, and the Short-haul Exception.

 

The 30-minute Break

Drivers are still required to take a 30-minute break after 8 consecutive hours on duty. Previously, the break was only valid if the driver was in an off-duty status. (off-duty or sleeper berth). Now, the break is valid during on-duty functions as long as you are not driving.

Drivers can now legally take a 30-minute DOT break while:

  • – Waiting in line at the shipper/receiver
  • – Fueling or waiting in line at the fuel pump
  • – Co-driver sitting in the passenger seat
  • – Filling out paperwork
  • – Loading/Unloading/Lumping

Just switch your status to On Duty – Not Driving.

Introducing the 7/3 Split

The 8/2 split rule is just as complicated as it is helpful. This new HOS ruling expands a driver’s resting options. In addition to the typical 10-hour break or 8/2 split, the FMCSA is introducing the 7/3 split.

The new 7/3 split rule works the same as the 8/2 split. It takes some drivers years to master the concept. Here is a simplified overview:

Truck drivers can be on duty for 14 hours a shift. Only 11 hours of that can be drive time.  Once they have reached 11 hours of driving or 14 hours since their day started (whichever comes first), they must go off duty for at least 10 hours.

Every driver should know this rule by heart. And most stick to this schedule day in and day out.

But what happens if your delivery time is outside your 14-hour window?

Let’s say a driver starts his shift at 10 am. It is 14 hours until midnight. If he drives 11 hours before midnight, he must stop for 10 hours.

But what if his delivery is scheduled for 2 am? He will be on break; he won’t be able to deliver on time. Unless he uses the new 7/3 split.

So, our driver begins his shift at 10 am, drives a total of 8 hours and arrives at his destination city at 6 pm. That’s too early to deliver but he does not have time to take a full 10-hour break.

With the new rule, the driver must go into the sleeper berth for a full 7 hours. When he wakes up, he can use all the on-duty time that was left over from before his break.

After completing his on-duty functions, he must go back into an off-duty status for at least 3 hours to complete his 10-hour break.

Confusing, right?

In essence, a split will pause the 14-hour on-duty window. When he comes back on duty, he will only have the leftovers from before his 7-hour break. So, if he drove 8 out of 11 hours, after the 7-hour break he can drive the remaining 3 hours.

When he comes out of the sleeper, the 14 starts running again. Since he was on-duty for 8 hours before the 7-hour break, his 3 hours of drive time must be used before his total 14 runs out. He would have 6 hours on duty to get in 3 hours of driving.

After 7 hours in the sleeper:
14 Total – 8 On-duty = 6 On-duty hours left at stop.
11 Drive – 8 drive = 3 Drive hours left at stop.
Must go back off duty for at least 3 hours to complete the break.

 

Modified Adverse Driving Conditions Exception

Under this exception, two extra drive hours are available to drivers who encounter irregular and unforeseen circumstances that may have slowed your travel. This exception can now be applied to passenger-carrying CMVs.

Adverse Driving Conditions Examples:
  • – Sinkhole or downed powerline that causes a delay
  • – Traffic accident that shuts down traffic
  • – Sudden tornado, snow, fog, etc. that was not in the forecast.

If you qualify for this exception, you can now drive up to 13 hours as long as you do it within your 14-hour window. Keep in mind, it does not take away your 30-minute break or extend your 14.

This exception does not extend your 60 or 70-hour clock. If you only have 4 hours left on your DOT clock, you will only be allowed to drive out those 4 hours plus the additional 2 hours.

Drivers must follow up with a full 10-hour break. You are not allowed to split rest hours after taking advantage of this exemption.

Not qualified examples:
  • – Adverse weather you knew about or could have discovered by trip planning
  • – Traffic jams during normal rush hour times
  • – Snowstorm in the winter in North Dakota
  • – Loading and Unloading delays

The DOT strongly recommends you log that you were taking advantage of 395.1 Adverse Driving Conditions Exception.

 

Short-haul Rules

Previously, drivers using the short-haul exemption, staying within an air radius of 100 miles, could not be on duty for more than 12 hours. Short-haul drivers within a 150-mile radius cannot drive beyond the 14 or 16th on-duty hour (depending on the number of days on duty).

This revision extends the radius from 100 to 150 air-miles for all short-haul drivers. It extends the maximum duty period allowed from 12 hours to 14 hours.

 

 

More helpful information:

8 Ways Truckers Relieve Stress During the Pandemic

Clearing Up Relaxed HOS Regulations: How Does It Affect You?

Trucking Safety In a Time of Pandemic

Preplanning During a National Pandemic

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8 Ways Truckers Relieve Stress During the Pandemic

As the excitement from the relaxed HOS regulations is feigning, truck drivers are beginning to feel the reality of their new normal.

Oil prices are tanking, good miles are rare, and brokers are paying less for the few available loads. Truck drivers are the backbone of the supply chain. Why are they taking the biggest hit?

Throughout the pandemic, some drivers have taken extreme measures to fight for justice. Several have joined forces to protest, asking the government to step in and further regulate the industry.

In April and May, truckers have been seen slowing down highway traffic in California, circling the capitol building in Phoenix, and lining Constitution Ave. in Washington D.C. The blaring of air horns even got the attention of President Trump who tweeted:

But regulation is a double-edged sword. You may feel regulation will help; you may not always agree with the outcome.

This type of protesting can be dangerous. Slowing down traffic on the highway puts truck drivers and the public in danger. Truckers have options, though. Driving is one of the many professions that offer the freedom to explore new things.

Here are 7 things truck drivers are doing to maintain their mental health during the Coronavirus pandemic.

1. Video chat with family and friends

One of the most difficult parts of the job for most truck drivers is being away from friends and family. Sure, you can call and text (while parked) throughout the day. But texting lacks emotional connection. While talking on the phone is a great means of communication, there is a better way.

Drivers are using video chats to connect with friends and family. What once was only displayed in science fiction television shows, like Star Trek or the Jetsons, is now available at your fingertips.

iPhone users can connect through the Facetime feature. If you don’t have an iPhone, don’t worry. Many social media platforms offer video chat capabilities through their messaging service. (e.g. Facebook Messenger, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.)

2. Explore Podcasts

Remember the old days, when you heard people talking on the radio instead of hundreds of commercials?

Good news! There are still countless radio talk shows available online, they have just been rebranded. Now we call them podcasts.

There are hundreds of thousands of podcasts you can access through free music apps like Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio, etc. And the range of categories is never-ending.

There are radio shows for car junkies, true crime fans, finance experts, video game reviews, politics, news, and mystery series to name a few. The list goes on and on!

3. Create your own playlist

If you listen to the FM radio today, you already know that in-between commercials, they replay the same 5 songs all day.  Get creative, make your own playlist.

A playlist is a modern-day mixtape that you can customize in most music apps. So now, when you had your fill of those podcasts, queue up all your favorite songs and jam on!

4. Go for a walk

It has been repeatedly proven that walking is extremely beneficial to your overall health and wellness. Truck drivers are lucky because they get to explore new areas daily.

After sitting in the truck all day, it will feel great to get your blood flowing. You’ll be able to get thousands of steps in now that you have your playlist ready to go.

5. Try Geocaching

Have you ever heard of a geocache (Geo-CASH)? It’s basically a worldwide scavenger hunt that uses GPS to lead you to a treasure. While you are out walking, give it a try.

Those who participate leave a container (called a cache) at a hidden location. The container could be anything from a giant ammo box to a camouflaged pill bottle.

Inside, players will leave a small treasure like a rare coin, small trinkets, or a clue to a larger cache. While preplanning your next load, do an internet search for geocaches in that area. You never know what you might find.

6. Learn a new skill

There are countless tutorials online where one can learn any new skill, from knitting to painting to learning to play a musical instrument.

It might be difficult to carry a guitar with you everywhere you go. Grab a harmonica instead. Its small, versatile, and can fit in your shirt pocket.

Then head over to the internet and find a harmonica tutorial. You’ll be playing like Neil Young and Bob Dylan in no time.

 

7. Journaling

Try expressing yourself through a creative outlet like journaling. A search for “trucker journal” returned some journals specifically for truckers.

Fill the empty pages with all the thoughts running through your mind. Most people find that journaling helps them work through personal issues and makes difficult decisions easier.

Trucker Journal    Pink Trucker Journal

 

8. Catch up on Safety Training

If you work for a reputable trucking company, you probably have a backlog of safety videos to catch up on.

Even if you have been driving for years and years, it never hurts to refresh your mind on safe habits. Catch up on your training and as always, stay safe out there.

Take Care of Yourself

Maintaining your mental health is just as important as your physical health during the Coronavirus pandemic. Use this time to reflect, be productive, and improve.

 

 

Here’s some articles you might have missed:

CSA Score Reduction, How to Challenge FMCSA Crash Rulings

Safety Managers’ Relief; The Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

Speeding Tickets Jump Drastically during COVID-19

Trump Ensures Safety of Truck Drivers with PPE donation

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Safety Managers’ Relief; The Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

Safety Managers' Relief; The Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse

The logistics industry is littered with chatter about the FMCSA’s new drug and alcohol clearinghouse. These new federal regulations change the way trucking companies and CDL holders report data. But what exactly is a clearinghouse?

A clearinghouse is an information hub. It is a source that collects and stores information for a set of users. In a project that has taken years to come to fruition, the federal government has is using this structure for the convenience of trucking companies and CDL holders alike.

What is the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse?

The new Clearinghouse is a secure online database that contains records of violations of FMCSA drug and alcohol testing programs. Available information includes:

  • Positive drug or alcohol test results
  • Altered drug or alcohol test results
  • Drug or alcohol test refusals
  • Return to duty status
  • Follow up testing plan
  • SAP process completion date

The information in the database is not available to the general public, so don’t worry about your private information being released. Only select registered users can access the clearinghouse including employers, medical review officers, substance abuse professionals, and CDL holders.

Who is required to use the Clearinghouse?

Anyone who holds a Commercial Driver’s License or a Commercial Learner’s Permit can use the clearinghouse to access their records. Employers of CDL/CLP holders who operate motor vehicles can use the information to expedite their hiring process.

Drivers will have access to their own information in the Clearinghouse. There is no charge to view their electronic record. They will be able to view their drug and alcohol program violation information and the status of their return-to-duty process.

Medical Review Officers will use the database to report information gathered during DOT physicals and drug or alcohol tests. MROs must report to the clearinghouse database within two days of a failed or refused drug test.

Substance Abuse Professionals are required to report when a CDL/CLP holder is registered in a SAP program and information about a CDL holder’s return to duty activities. They also must identify the dates regarding SAP assessments, completion, and eligibility to RTD.

Use this flow chart to determine your role.

 How will I use the Clearinghouse?

  • REGISTER – Every user must register to use the clearinghouse. Make sure you determine your user role before registration. Your options are Driver, Employer/CTPA, or SAPs/MROs.
  • CONSENT – After registration, drivers must consent to having their records pulled by employers.  * Drivers are not required to register for the Clearinghouse, records will be filed under their CDL number if they do not have an account. Drivers must be registered to respond to electronic consent requests from prospective and current employees.
  • QUERY – Employers will search the database to determine if the driver’s clearinghouse record contains information about drug and alcohol program violations.
  • SAFETY – Improve road safety by preventing CMV related fatalities and injuries. Documents and readily available records will allow employers to make informed hiring decisions. Drivers with a drug/alcohol history might find it more difficult to find a job.

How does the clearinghouse improve roadway safety?

The Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse provides employers with access to drug and alcohol violation information in real-time. It is a one-stop shop, making it easier to conduct pre-employment investigations and set qualifications.

The clearinghouse will also make it harder for drivers to conceal violations that normally might slip through the cracks. Access to the information provides more insight into a driver’s background and helps ensure employee compliance.

The database is a vital online tool to identify CMV drivers who have refused or failed drug tests.  It will also identify those who have failed to complete a Return to Duty substance abuse program.

Stay Informed

Browse the website, read FAQs, and subscribe for email updates after you register for the clearinghouse.

Affected Sectors

The new Clearinghouse will impact all CDL holders who operate commercial motor vehicles.

  • Interstate and intrastate motor carriers
  • Passenger carriers
  • School bus drivers
  • Construction equipment operators
  • Limousine drivers
  • Municipal vehicle drivers (e.g. waste management vehicles)
  • Anyone subject to FMCSA drug and alcohol tests

Effective Dates

As of January 6, 2020, employers will now be required to report all drug and alcohol violations to the Clearinghouse. This online database will be used as a tool to conduct inquiries about CDL holders, check RTD status, and eligibility to operate a CMV.

The information stored in the Clearinghouse is relevant to incidences occurring after January 6, 2020. If a violation occurred before that date, it will not be displayed in the Clearinghouse. It is important for safety officers to keep that date in mind throughout the recruiting process.

Drivers do not have to be registered to the clearinghouse for a violation to be attached to them. Clearinghouse records will be associated with their CDL number.

All drivers can choose how they want to be notified of changes to their records. They are given the option of mail or email notifications at the time of registration. Drivers will receive a notification any time information is added, removed, or updated.

How do I consent?

Employers are required to gain consent, written or electronically, from all drivers in order to pull their records. They will then use the Clearinghouse to investigate all CDL/CLP drivers annually and for pre-employment purposes.

Owner Operators will follow a slightly different procedure. They must contact the Clearinghouse to designate an administrator to update their records since they are self-employed.

This streamlined process will create a more transparent view of the driver’s drug/alcohol history. More visibility leads to easier recruiting processes for most companies. And drivers gain the advantage of being able to see firsthand what is on their records instead of relying on word of mouth from safety departments and recruiters.

For more information or to register, go to https://clearinghouse.fmcsa.dot.gov/

 

What you may have missed:

Speeding Tickets Jump Drastically during COVID-19

Logistics Layoffs; How the Industry is Shifting

Logistics – Legal Trouble after COVID-19

Trucking Safety in a Time of Pandemic

Exclusive Coronavirus Information for Truckers

 

 

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Speeding Tickets Jump Drastically during COVID-19

A Speeding ticket is more than just a Fine.

If you asked 100 truck drivers what their dream highway looked like, you would likely get the same answer across the board: Decreased commuter traffic.

Many truck drivers have gotten their wish as commuters have been encouraged to shelter in place and work from home during the coronavirus pandemic. Complying with social distancing rules may have cleared up traffic, but free and open highways give truck drivers little wiggle room.

How does speeding affect your CDL

A moving violation can have a severe impact on your driving record. The consequences vary in severity depending on how often and what kind of ticket you get.

Speed limits are not included in the FMSCA waivers issued in the emergency declarations. Drivers hauling emergency goods will still be assigned CSA points if they are caught speeding.

A truck driver’s safety record is measured by a federal regulatory point system called CSA (Compliance, Safety, Accountability). Infractions are based on a point system; The worse the violation, the more points are given to the driver. A driver that has been issued more violations will have a higher CSA score.

For example, a driver who is given a ticket for 6-10 mph over the speed limit will also receive 4 CSA points. If a driver is caught speeding 11-14 mph over, 7 CSA points will be assigned. And for drivers clocking in at 15+ mph or in a construction zone, 10 points will be tacked on to their CSA score.

Speeding tickets can even affect your license when you are off duty. Multiple citations in a personal vehicle can lead to suspension or revocation of a CDL.

Trucking companies who utilize safety monitoring systems have a duty to reprimand drivers even if no ticket was issued. Reckless driving, even without a citation, means you are putting your life, your career, and the safety of others at risk.

More speeding tickets

Reports in California show that even though traffic volume has decreased 35%, citations for excessive speed have skyrocketed at an alarming rate.

Empty highways created a false sense of security, not only for truck drivers, for four-wheelers too. It seems safer to drive at excessive speeds when there is less congestion.

 “Higher speeds can lead to much more serious injuries and significantly increase the chance of death should a crash occur.” – CHP Commissioner Warren Stanly

With everything a truck driver has to lose, why do they do it?

The Heat is On for Truck Drivers

For most truck drivers, getting paid by the mile means the more you move, the more you make. Drivers who cover more ground in a given week bring home extra money. A per-mile rate of pay is incentive enough for some drivers to put the pedal to the metal.

On top of that, truck drivers build their reputations on whether they can pick up and deliver on time. A driver can plan a trip down with plenty of time to spare, but one traffic jam or work zone can throw the whole thing off-kilter.

The pressure is especially intense during the pandemic. Truck drivers focus on delivering basic needs to consumers as quickly as possible.

For a truck driver, a speeding ticket is not just an inconvenience or a fine. It could mean losing their job or even their license. Multiple traffic violations make it more difficult for truckers to find work.

A clean driving record is a hiring requirement for reputable trucking companies. A driver with heavy boots will be at a disadvantage if they find themselves back in the job market. Keep these things in mind every time you hit the road:

  • – Always comply with traffic laws.
  • – Keep an eye open for speed changes.
  • – Be alert in work zones.
  • – Plan your trips with extra time.
  • – Slow down for curves.
  • – Anticipate downgrades.

As the economy regains equilibrium, so will the roadways. Civilians will begin commuting back and forth to work, to church, shopping, etc. Remember, the rules of the road do not disappear and reappear with the flow of traffic. Always keep your safety and the safety of others on the top of your mind.

 

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