Tag Archive for: online training tools

Gearing Up for Safe Driver Week

 

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is an international effort between industry participants, focused on improving roadway safety. They maintain efforts to educate all drivers in several categories, including International Roadchecks, Brake Safety, Hazardous Materials, etc.

The Operation Safe Driver Program was created by the CVSA to bring awareness to the significance of proper driver behaviors.

Safe Driver Week takes place July 12-18 this year with speeding as the main target. Officers will especially be looking for drivers who are operating at excess speeds. Last year, over 17,500 speeding tickets were issued to commercial and passenger vehicles during the weeklong blitz.

Last year during the same week, CMV drivers received more speeding tickets than the following, combined:

  • – Failure to Wear a Seatbelt
  • – Using a Handheld Phone/Texting
  • – Improper Lane Change
  • – Possession/Influence of drugs or alcohol

Why is it important?

Most accidents involving a CMV are caused by driver behavior, but most often, it wasn’t the trucker’s fault. With crowded highways, speeding four-wheelers, and governed big rigs, traffic accidents are inevitable. Proper training and awareness can significantly reduce the likelihood of an accident involving you or your drivers.

Speed-related issues cause 9,378 crash fatalities in 2018.

9,378 people are dead because someone was driving too fast. Excessive speed is always avoidable and always unacceptable.

No load is worth your life or the lives of others around you.

What are we doing?

Infiniti Workforce Solutions is sponsoring an exclusive webinar for all safety personnel. We will be discussing CVSA’s Safe Driver Week focused on speeding. Three industry experts will be giving best practice advice to help you prepare your fleet.

Here’s the lineup of guests:

-Mark Rhea, Industry Consultant, Infinit-I Workforce Solutions

-Chris Turner, Director of Crash and Data Programs, Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance

-Major Chris Nordloh, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Coordinator, Texas Department of Public Safety

If you want to be proactive during the weeklong blitz, do not miss this webinar. Registration is free. Sign up here.

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions is offering a 30-Day Complimentary Trial to new users.

Absolutely free, no-obligation. Because 30 days is more than enough to prove our value.

And if not, you’ve had access to transportation’s #1 learning management system for free. No cost, whatsoever!

Here’s what you’ll gain:

Automatic Documentation – A rock-solid LMS that captures training and tests your employees on what they learned

Content Library – More content than any other transportation LMS. 850 training videos.

Unmatched Service – Dedicated Client Success Rep who works for you.

Enhance your safety culture today, click here to learn how.

 

Additional Resources:

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

Why You Should Be Focused on Your Employee’s Cultural Relationships Now More Than Ever

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

Infinit-I Award-Winning Training Platform

Through the first half of 2020, the trucking industry has made major adjustments to a “new normal.” Our procedures have evolved to maintain efficiency in a wounded economic environment. And yet, we survived.

Resistance to change is common, as amendments to the status quo can be challenging. Stepping outside our comfort zone, however, is an opportunity for personal and professional growth. We were motivated, because of the pandemic, to protect our greatest assets.

You, as a client, are our most valuable asset.

For us, it really wasn’t much of a stretch. We pride ourselves on our unrelenting customer service. The pandemic has allowed us to prove it to a broader audience who, amid the crises, sought affirmation.

For the past six months, our clients continued their success through our training and communication software. To achieve our goal, we stuck by one rule: keep it simple.

Because they have always been top-notch, our Client Success Team was instructed to maintain business as usual. We strive to transcend your expectations, provide superior communication, and employ a problem solver mentality. We provide these through our stellar Client Success Representatives.

Transcend Expectations

We specialize in training. It’s no surprise our Client Success Reps are thoroughly prepared to handle sticky situations. Their abilities will consistently transcend your expectations.

Our Client Success Reps are here to see you out-perform, out-shine, and out-grow your current safety culture.

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

Superior Communication

A key indicator of employee satisfaction is communication. Ask any truck driver, office employee, or shop worker, etc. They will agree.

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions has reformulated the traditional customer service model. Instead of waiting for you to call us with problems, we proactively seek out potential issues in a bi-monthly check-in.

No need to dial a call center, select your prompts, and wait for the next available representative. Our Success Team reaches out to you, saving you time while simultaneously driving you to success.

Problem Solvers’ Mentality

Infinit-I Workforce Solutions not only created the Five Leadership Principles, we employ them. During your chat, let them know which areas of your company you would like to improve. We will show you what it means to “Propel the Psychology of a Problem Solver.”

Our Client Success Reps are well versed in the content of our resource library. They will happily recommend and assign training courses to your employees.

While other companies are scaling back their client support, we are expanding. Where they are cutting availability, we’re building ours. Where they have you on hold for 30 or 60 minutes, we respond as quickly as always.

In addition to your own dedicated CSR, you can now take advantage of our learning management system for free. Get to know us during your 30-Day Complimentary Trial, our gift to an industry under stress.

Our success model is proactive. It is effective. And most importantly, it is personal. We call them Client Success Reps for a reason. You will win! Let us prove it to you.

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5 Intangible Must Haves that Truckers Crave in the Job Market

5 Intangible Must Haves that Truckers Crave in the Job Market

Wow! Dan Baker, what an insightful thinker!

We can’t stop talking about the inspiring webinar this week featuring Dan Baker, so we decided to blog about it.

His wisdom and knowledge and overall-attitude about truck drivers are downright infectious! (Bad choice of words during a pandemic?)

The trucking industry moves fast. If you’ve never seen the inside of an operations department, you may not realize the stress and anxiety that exists. One might compare the energy level to the trading floor of the stock exchange, or the stress of air traffic control.

All of this with a solitary purpose, deliver consumer goods on time.

What is a Cultural Relationship?

Research states that employee satisfaction is one of the most important factors in retention. One employee’s attitude can change the feeling of an entire workspace, either positively or negatively.

Bright HR introduces the concept of a psychological contract between employers and employees. The idea states that employers have an obligation to recognize the mental state of their employees and identify potential issues that may arise.

A company’s culture has become a prevalent topic in the working world. Leadership is focused on creating solid cultural relationships between employees.

Employee dissatisfaction leads to a higher turnover. High turnover leads to lower profitability.

The cost of replacing an employee can be thousands of dollars, depending on their position. Creating a workspace where employees feel respected and valued can support one of the best cost-cutting tools; retention.

Why is it important?

Turnover is an ever-present pain point, especially in the trucking industry where average driver turnover hovers north of 90%. The current driver shortage means there are many options for most drivers to easily find another trucking job.

Most of the time, it’s not about the equipment. Or the sign-on bonus. Or the size of the fleet.  While those are factors in the decision-making process, there are other, non-tangible perks that truck drivers are looking for.

With that in mind, employers are focusing on how to make their company the place drivers want to be.

5 Intangibles Truck Drivers Crave

Honesty

From day one, truck drivers just want to hear the truth. Recruiting, especially in transportation, has become a sales position.

Recruiters are trained in sales tactics. They are instructed to ask open-ended questions to identify value points. Then use those value points to entice the drivers. Sometimes, this can feel like a sales pitch to the driver instead of the beginning of a working relationship.

From the moment a driver posts a resume on a job board, their phone starts ringing nonstop. It is easy to get overwhelmed with all the interviews, emails, and screening they have to participate in.

Remove the vail of the sales pitch. Be honest. If you value that driver, tell them.

Communication

After they are employed, you must be able to carry that through to the operations side. One of the most frustrating things for an employee is lack of communication.

Imagine what it’s like to be sitting in a tractor-trailer, waiting for an assignment. Being told, “I’m working on something for you.” Only to wait hours and hours to be dispatched with absolutely no idea when they might get to start rolling.

That driver, or any employee for that matter, would much rather hear, “I won’t have an assignment for you for another 3 hours.”

They may not be happy about the situation, but setting the expectation is always better than leaving your driver hanging.

Respect

Truck drivers are the ultimate boots on the ground, front-line, in-the-know resources of the industry. And they deserve to be treated as such.

Even though they are not sitting in a cubicle at the terminal every day, they are still just as much a part of the workforce. Dispatchers, safety officers, managers, executives, truck drivers, and everyone in between should see themselves as coworkers.

This is where your company culture determines your employees’ cultural relationship. Do they see themselves as a team with a common goal? Or is it every man for himself?

To create a positive experience for everyone involved, focus on enhancing that relationship. Explore training options to encourage a workforce that shows respect to each other.

Fast Orientation

Since turnover is so high in the trucking industry, drivers can move companies often. They have been involved in every type of orientation available. And most of the time, they flat out don’t want to be there.

They’ve heard the presentations, they’ve filled out the paperwork, they’ve taken tests repeatedly.

With the latest technological advances, the practice of in-person orientation has become all but obsolete. Infinit-I Workforce Solutions allows trucking companies to virtually conduct online orientation from the comfort of their own home.

Orientation begins immediately after a job offer is made. The short, Netflix style videos or new hire paperwork get sent directly to your new driver’s computer, tablet, or smartphone. They can participate in all your regular “class-room style” orientation activities before they even arrive at the terminal.

Truck drivers just want to get on the road. For some, sitting through 3+ days of repetitive orientation is an eternity. We can change that.

To drive

Enough said.

Empty asphalt road in summer.

As previously mentioned, Dan Baker is an expert at creating positive and encouraging cultural relationships, specifically in the trucking industry. His Cultural Relationship Program was born of a need for connection and change.

One thing has become palpably apparent during the national emergencies recently: truck drivers are essential. And they should be treated that way. A strong cultural relationship is mutually beneficial for everyone from the front lines all the way up the ladder.

The Dan Baker Cultural Relationship Program will help you evaluate your business structure and allow you to eliminate weak points and solidify your strengths.

Click here for more information.

Additional Resources:

Why You Should Be Focused on Your Employee’s Cultural Relationships Now More Than Ever

Why your Safety Culture will Die without Buy-In. And how to get it.

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

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Why your Safety Culture will Die without Buy-In. And how to get it.

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

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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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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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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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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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Implementing Driver Engagement Programs That Work

driver engagement programs

At the end of the day, a driver working is mainly about a good job and a paycheck. But what does a “good job” mean? The answer might surprise you. In this gig-economy, good relationships, and meaningful engagement at work are more of a premium than ever, especially if you want to attract younger drivers who are looking for a fulfilling experience on the job, as well as good pay. Find out how driver engagement programs can help your company stand out from the crowd.

What is an “engaged” driver?

An engaged driver wants to make the relationship work. Why? Because an engaged driver believes they have a part to play in your company. They don’t feel like a disposable spare part that can be easily ignored and replaced but like a team player.

An engaged driver knows:

  • • They have your ear when they need it
  • • You respect them in word and deed
  • • You acknowledge that they have a life outside of work
  • • You’re honest and fair about policy enforcement
  • • If they complain, something gets done

An engaged driver engages by:

  • • Listening/complying when you ask for something
  • • Giving their best
  • • Sticking around
  • • Keeping you in the loop
  • • Being willing to learn
  • • Saving you time, trouble, and money when they can

In other words:

Engaged drivers act like team players because they’re treated that way.

As in any job, drivers care about the company they work for! Everyone wants to care about what they do. It doesn’t matter how tough or old-school a driver looks or sounds; they care about relationships, the functionality of the business, and their ability to contribute—not just about the dollar.

What makes drivers disengage?

A lot of turnover stems from a lack of connection with the hiring company. Even if everything generally seems OK on the surface, drivers often feel that they’re left hanging. Why?

One thing that drivers have is time. And it can work against you. With all that windshield time, they can start thinking about a problem that started on Monday; if they’re still thinking about it by Wednesday with no communication, by Friday, they might quit. For you, it comes out of the blue. But for the driver, it’s been stewing a while, with no productive outlet or solution. The key is communication.

Molehills easily become mountains when you don’t offer an opportunity for engagement and feedback. Long-distance relationships are hard, and that’s what this is.

How does a driver-engagement program work?

Drivers with 30 years or more on the road will tell you they have a family at home, and a family on the road. Earn your part in that family, and you will gain loyal drivers.

Be honest about the job.

Your first impression should include a clear, honest, and thorough job description, not a fuzzy description that’s really a desperate plea for drivers. Set applicants up for success. Tell them what they’re getting into.

Find the right people.

Seek drivers who are a fit for the roles. If you use online training, you can send training to applicants to screen them. Find out right off who is detail-oriented, who cares about finding a good job, who’s willing to learn and comply, etc. When you make it easier to recruit top-quality drivers, you reduce turnover.

Set the tone in orientation.

Be top-quality, time-sensitive, relevant, organized, honest about the job, and give drivers a great start. Again, online training is a flexible tool for engagement. If you introduce required online training at this point, you already prove that you prioritize safety and keeping drivers on the road. You can also get a sense of a driver’s attitude and comfort level. You and the driver can both make sure it’s the right fit.

Make it easy to communicate.

Communication goes two ways. Drivers should be able to hear from you without hassle, and you from them. Your technology may need to be rebooted or streamlined, but making this a #1 priority makes you a highly desirable employer.

Some ways to make this work:

  • • Work on communication between drivers & managers/owners
  • • Work on the driver/dispatcher relationship
  • • Make training quicker, easier, and more mobile
  • • Improve driver-driver relationships through driver mentors and trainers
  • • Cut down on in-person meetings as much as possible
  • • Personalize official messages when you can (ex. “Great haul last month” or “Happy birthday!”)

Make it easy to pitch in.

Drivers can assist management in solving business problems. They also contribute to the life, fun, and meaningfulness of work. Figure out why drivers aren’t happy and create training content based on the complaints expressed. Say, “I hear you.” Then take action. Use a safety competition as a fundraiser for a charity. Turn stories of some of your drivers on the road into a monthly e-newsletter. Open the door for engagement.

Give your CEO screen time.

Put together a “state of the company” message and share it with drivers each month. In a large company, a driver might only really know their dispatcher. Use messaging systems creatively to encourage and inspire from the top, as well as remind and challenge to meet goals.

Even if you do one or two of these things, it already sets you apart from most companies who do nothing to improve driver engagement! Wouldn’t it be great to have a waiting list of drivers who want to come on board with you? The driver is the only person in the company who does the work that generates the revenue to pay everyone else. Engage drivers at every level. Build a company where drivers want to work.

At Infinit-I Workforce Solutions, we help our clients get to the heart of driver engagement with online training and communication. It’s integrated, easy to implement, and powerfully effective. Read testimonials or sign up for a free demo today!

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Online Training and Geographically Dispersed Drivers

Truck on a Map of North America - Online Training - Infinit-I Workforce Solutions

Many trucking companies maintain a fleet of geographically dispersed drivers, spread over the U.S. or North America. This can mean major business benefits and a wide network of carrier relationships, but also comes with its own set of problems when it comes to communications and driver training. This is where online training becomes an ideal solution.

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