GSM Pacific

[Virtual Presenter] Good morning everyone. I'm pleased to be here today to talk to you about the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's role in regulating commercial motor vehicles and the importance of adherence to FMCSA safety standards. Let's now take a closer look at this important topic..

[Audio] It is of utmost importance to adhere to the safety regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for commercial motor vehicles and their drivers, in order to ensure safety on the roads and maintain the stability of the nation's transportation system..

[Audio] Safety is of utmost importance for professional drivers. To ensure the safety of people on the road, it is vital that trucking companies comply with the regulations provided by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These regulations set the minimum standards for the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles when travelling across state borders. Adhering to these rules is necessary for trucking companies to stay in line with safety standards, avoid penalties, and safeguard the public..

[Audio] One key component of being a professional truck driver is staying compliant with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations. Compliance with these regulations not only keeps your business safe but also the trucks, trailer and cargo on the road safe. In this slide, we will be exploring the FMCSA regulations, particularly Hours of Service and Vehicle Inspections and Maintenance Requirements..

[Audio] FMCSA is the federal government agency in charge of making sure CMVs, or commercial motor vehicles, drive safely on the roads. Fleet managers must make sure their drivers and team members understand FMCSA rules. Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,001 pounds or more are considered commercial motor vehicles and must follow FMCSA regulations. Abiding by these guidelines increases the safety of CMVs and decreases the incidents of crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving trucks..

[Audio] The FMCSA – Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – is responsible for regulating all aspects of commercial motor vehicle safety. This includes, but isn't limited to, the number of consecutive hours a trucker can drive, pre-employment checks for commercial drivers, frequency of drug and alcohol testing, what materials need to be in the cab, when and how to inspect vehicles, how shippers must label hazardous materials and how cargo should be secured. At GSM Pacific, we take safety seriously and are committed to FMCSA compliance to ensure our truckers are protected on the road..

[Audio] We must stay current and in compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's Hours of Service Regulations. Protecting our drivers legally and safely is critical, not only for our drivers but for the safety of everyone on the road. We can assist you in making sure your drivers are in line with the regulations and that you are applying the right exemptions..

[Audio] All carriers weighing 10,001 pounds or more and hauling hazardous materials in quantities requiring placards, must comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Hours of Service of Drivers Final Rule. This rule sets the standard for completing HOS and requires the use of telematics software to automatically record data for HOS compliance. The ELD mandate forces carriers to a new level of compliance for completing HOS to ensure safety and environmental accountability on the roads..

[Audio] As professional drivers, the health and safety of ourselves and our passengers are of the utmost importance. To ensure we are in compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations, the 34-Hour Driver Restart Rule allows us to "restart" our 60- or 70-hour clock calculations by taking 34 or more consecutive hours off duty. With a “valid” restart, we effectively reset our weekly hours back to zero. In addition, the 30 Minute Break Requirement, allows us to perform other on-duty tasks such as loading and unloading without having to worry about exceeding our maximum work hours..

[Audio] The DOT 16-Hour Rule is an important regulation that provides an exemption from the typical 14-hour maximum on-duty period for certain short-haul drivers. This exception allows these drivers to stay on-duty for 16 hours, helping to prevent them from getting stuck in the middle of a journey or feeling the need to speed or drive recklessly in order to reach their destination within the 14 hours allowed. As a result, the 16-hour rule contributes to the overall safety of truck drivers..

[Audio] An exception to the 150 air-mile radius can help support truck driver safety. This exception, which does not exempt drivers from all safety regulations or hours-of-service regulations, allows truck drivers operating within a 150 air-mile radius of their regular work reporting location to be exempt from certain logbook requirements. Nonetheless, drivers are still obliged to follow daily and weekly driving and on-duty limits and all safety regulations. To qualify, drivers must return to their regular work reporting location within 14 hours and be released from work, while operating for no more than 11 hours and with 10 consecutive hours off duty separating each 14 hours on duty. Motor carriers must also keep time records of the times a driver starts and stops work each day and the total hours on duty. Drivers and their fleets have the option of using a logbook even though they are within the 150 air-mile radius..

[Audio] When faced with inclement weather or other road-related delays, drivers may be able to extend their drive time by two hours under the Adverse Driving Conditions Exception. This is done to ensure the safety of the driver, though they are still expected to remain within the maximum total of 16 hours in on-duty status. However, this exception only applies if the driver could not have predicted such conditions before beginning the run, and if possible, they must still complete their duties within the 13-hour drive time and return to their home terminal within 16 hours..

[Audio] As a fleet manager, you understand how important it is to ensure compliance with FMCSA regulations. Ignoring these rules can result in penalties, damage your reputation and even criminal charges. Therefore, it is important to remember and follow the HOS regulations, like the 10-hour off-duty period before each shift, the 60 or 70 hours of driving time in seven or eight days and the 14-hour duty period, with a 30-minute break in the eighth hour. Investing time to follow regulations now can help avoid expensive mistakes in the future..

[Audio] It is essential for truck drivers to prioritize safety for themselves and other drivers on the roadway. To remain compliant with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's guidelines, it is important for drivers to use strategies such as getting appropriate rest, creating a thoughtful trip plan, and utilizing the best technology available in their trucks. Statistics indicate that 4000 fatalities occur each year due to truck accidents, and up to 20% of those may be related to fatigue. Through staying educated about the regulations, following them, and using the correct protective measures, we can make a meaningful difference in these statistics..

[Audio] In the profession of a truck driver, understanding the significance of fatigue management and the methods to take to prevent violations as well as guarantee safety is paramount. To manage fatigue, one should plan out their rest sessions beforehand, take power naps when necessary, avoid high-fatigue hours, drink plenty of fluids and take in balanced nutrition, talk to their supervisors and colleagues, make use of monitoring technologies, and make good sleep a priority. Getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night is critical in order to be attentive and ready for long drives. In so doing, we can guarantee safety on the roads while reducing the risks of potential violations..

[Audio] Commercial truck drivers are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to complete a daily vehicle inspection report (DVIR) for each power unit operated under Section 396.11. This report must include multiple trailer inspections and must adhere to the pre-trip inspection procedures in order to stay in line with FMCSA standards..

[Audio] Pre-trip inspections of trucks are a requirement of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This includes ensuring the service brakes, parking brake, steering mechanism, lighting devices and reflectors, tires, horn, windshield wipers, rear vision mirrors, coupling devices, wheels and rims, and all emergency equipment are in good working condition. This is to ensure not just the safety of the driver, but also of the cargo and other motorists on the road..

[Audio] We must ensure the truck and its cargo are compliant with safety standards. This includes confirming that the cab card and book, inspection sticker, IFTA stickers, and necessary permits are all present and valid. Furthermore, that the FMCSA Safety Regulations and Hazardous Materials book is in the cab and a paper logbook is in the truck, and that our CDL and Medical card are always with us. It is essential to review these documents for safety and adherence to regulations while on the roads..

[Audio] Being in compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is essential for truck drivers. To ensure a safe journey, you need to be sure you have emergency equipment, such as orange triangles, a charged and secured fire extinguisher, and extra fuses if your truck doesn’t use circuit breakers. In addition to these essential items, drivers should also have supplies such load bars and/or straps, extra oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid, line antifreeze and diesel anti-gel, chains and bungees, and gladhand seals to have the best chance of a safe trip..

[Audio] It is our responsibility as professionals to prioritize safety for all drivers. To comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, drivers must complete a daily written post-trip inspection report at the end of each day to identify any defects or deficiencies that could affect the safety of the vehicle or cause it to breakdown. Motor carriers must certify that any listed deficiencies have been repaired and retain the original copy for 3 months. Before a driver is allowed to operate a vehicle, any defect or deficiency must be repaired to ensure it does not affect the safe operation of the vehicle..

[Audio] Motor carriers and intermodal equipment providers must keep precise records for each vehicle and unit of intermodal equipment, which should include details about the vehicle's make, serial number, and tire size, along with inspections, repairs, and maintenance records. These records must be kept for at least one year and six months after the vehicle leaves the motor carrier's control. It is important to keep these records updated to meet FMCSA compliance..

[Audio] Compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is essential to ensure the safety of truck drivers on the roads. The FMCSA's special agents are responsible for inspecting motor vehicles and intermodal equipment in operation. The Driver Vehicle Examination Report is used to document the results of inspections. In cases where a vehicle or equipment has a mechanical defect or loading that could cause an accident or breakdown, it is declared "out-of-service" and marked as such. The motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider are responsible for making sure that any vehicle declared and marked out-of-service does not operate until all the required repairs have been made..

[Audio] GSM Pacific ensures compliance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's inspection of motor vehicles and intermodal equipment regulations. Our drivers are responsible for delivering inspection reports to both the motor carrier and the intermodal equipment provider. Furthermore, motor carriers and intermodal equipment providers need to inspect and record any repairs to items of intermodal equipment that have been rendered out-of-service. We are determined to guarantee that any violation is addressed and resolved within 15 days of the inspection..

[Audio] Motor carriers must inspect and maintain their vehicles thoroughly, both to meet regulations and to guarantee driver safety. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a regular lubrication schedule must be in place, and all vehicles must be checked for oil and/or grease leaks. Unsafe operation of vehicles is prohibited and any vehicles found to be unsafe must be taken out of service for repair immediately..

[Audio] Being educated on the mechanical functions of a truck is essential for avoiding potential accidents. Slide is about the most common mechanical problems a truck faces on the road. Common issues include steering component problems, brake problems, underinflated tires or improper wheel hub assemblies. Drivers must be aware of these potential issues to stay safe on the road..

[Audio] Awareness of potential dangers is essential for those driving a semi-truck. It becomes even more important to keep an eye out when the roads are wet. The phrase "the key to success is to spot the hazards early" rings true, and keeping up with maintenance, respecting the speed limit, and driving defensively are all necessary steps for both safety and compliance with the laws. Moving on, let's discuss how proper nutrition can contribute to our overall health and well-being..

[Audio] Keeping cargo secure and avoiding collisions is of utmost importance for any truck driver. Planning ahead and performing a pre-check are two essential strategies to ensure safety on the road. Spending some time researching a route beforehand can help to recognize likely risks such as bridges or underpasses that should be avoided. Moreover, taking a moment to go over the route upon arrival can help to spot any unexpected roadblocks and guarantee that pedestrians are safe. In the end, carving out the time to plan ahead and conduct a pre-check can assist in guaranteeing a secure and safe drive every time..

[Audio] Prioritizing safety on the road as a truck driver is of utmost importance. To ensure safety and avoid collisions, one should always drive at a safe speed, taking into account the weather and road conditions. Additionally, adhering to the regulations for driving and sleep, such as limits on how many hours one can drive as well as required breaks and time off for rest, are important. Lastly, staying focused and avoiding any temptation to text while driving is paramount. Implementing these strategies can help protect both oneself and other drivers on the road..

[Audio] Safety should be your top priority as a professional truck driver. Taking extra precautions to avoid collisions and securing your cargo is a must, as well as making sure regular truck maintenance is done. Being aware of exactly what's in your trailer, especially when travelling with hazardous materials, is also essential to successful and safe trips..

[Audio] Being aware of our impaired sight in and around a semi-truck is integral to safe driving in busy roads. The blind spot of a semi-truck significantly exceeds that of other vehicles, and extends forward for 20 feet, backward for 30 feet, and diagonally along both sides. Drivers should be aware that if they cannot see the other truck's driver in their side mirror, the driver likely cannot see them either. To ensure the blind spot is minimized, other vehicles can be encouraged to pass the truck while parked and observed through the side mirrors. Once the vehicle leaves the flat mirror, they should be visible in the convex mirror..

[Audio] As a professional driver, you must recognize vulnerable road users (VRUs). Be mindful that pedestrians, cyclists and moped riders are often unaware of how drivers have to adjust to their environment, including blind spots, and be ready for sudden moves. It is important to be aware of common traffic situations in cities, such as trucks turning right, and practice caution and vigilance at all times to ensure the safety of all on the roads..

[Audio] We must anticipate the road ahead as professional truck drivers and stay alert to potential vulnerabilities. Being mindful of our surroundings can help us adjust our speed and take a safe turn when necessary. When driving in cities, we should ensure that mirrors and windows are clean, safety systems are functioning properly, and that any monitors or personal items do not obstruct the view. Ultimately, it is our responsibility to remain the number one safety system on the road. Keeping these steps in mind can help ensure the safety of all who share the road with us..

[Audio] FMCSA, or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, has certain regulations for trucking fleets that they must abide by to remain compliant. This involves proper filing and recordkeeping of documents such as proof of insurance, motor vehicle reports, drug testing records, and driver qualification files, to mention a few. Having these documents in order can not just ensure that the fleet runs smoothly but also that the company abides by all FMCSA regulations..

[Audio] For Truck Drivers, safety should always be the highest priority. Adhering to the standards put forth by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration with respect to drug and alcohol testing is paramount for the safety of all drivers and other motorists on the road. It is essential to keep these regulations at the forefront of one's mind..

[Audio] As professional drivers, we should make use of the technology available to plan our routes. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) provides guidelines for using GPS navigation systems when driving. This includes entering all data regarding our vehicles before commencing, following the route suggested by the navigation, refraining from distracted driving when entering information, and making sure our maps are updated for the most current route planning. By adhering to these guidelines, we can ensure our journey is both safe and efficient..

[Audio] We will be examining the FMCSA compliance regulations concerning how motor carriers should manage emergencies and incidents. If a crash occurs, motor carriers must comply with the FMCSA regulations and maintain a record of all crashes within the past three years. Additionally, if any hazardous material is released, a hazardous incident report must be submitted. Safety and compliance should always be the priorities during any incident, so make sure to become familiar with the FMCSA guidelines..

[Audio] Good safety practices are essential when operating heavy duty vehicles, especially for transporting hazardous materials. As soon as an incident involving hazardous materials occur, the person in physical possession must provide notice to the National Response Center within 12 hours. The notice must include information such as the name of the reporter, their address, their phone number, the date, time and location of the incident, the class or division of hazardous materials involved, and the type of incident. By ensuring all such information is provided immediately, we can ensure greater safety on the roads for both drivers and the public..

[Audio] Safety procedures are of utmost importance for commercial transportation operators. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a telephone report must be made whenever any of the five conditions discussed in the slide occur: injury, public evacuation, closure of a transportation artery, flight pattern alteration, or suspected radioactive contamination. Prompt notification to the FMCSA is essential for the safety of drivers and the public. Ensuring procedures are in compliance with the FMCSA is also critical..

[Audio] It is our profession to guarantee the security of our drivers on the highways. In recent times, sticking to the laws put down by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has become more and more crucial. This includes notifying events such as fires, fractures, spills, or assumed tainting involving dangerous materials, and also discharges of marine pollutants in sums surpassing 450 L for fluid or 400 kg for solid. In such scenarios, we must not just provide a primary notification to the US National Response Center, but also present a written account of the episode. It is our obligation to make sure that our drivers are safe and that our operations are in accordance with all regulations..

[Audio] Motor carriers must implement countermeasures to lower the probability of future crashes. Such countermeasures include rerouting during construction zones, organizing safety meetings and giving guidelines on attentive driving, adapting dispatch times to avoid sun glare, equipping trailers with brake lights and turn signals, providing driver training, creating driver recognition programs, and applying stickers to encourage drivers to be cautious. These strategies and others can assist carriers in reducing the number of crashes and encouraging safety on the roads..

[Audio] As a professional truck driver on the roads, we have a responsibility to remain at the scene of an accident, even if we are not the cause of the accident or have any involvement in it. The Federal Motor Carrier Act states that we must exchange information and provide assistance where necessary. It is also important to assess the situation to make sure that we can do so safely and without putting ourselves at risk. By doing these things, we are helping to maintain the roads for the safety of all parties involved, from drivers to pedestrians..

[Audio] Having gone through the essential steps concerning accidents, breakdowns, or medical emergencies, let's move on to the great aspects of farm living. The next slide will demonstrate how a family lives on a farm and the daily activities they undertake..

[Audio] In the event of a truck accident, it is essential to have a plan of action. Obtain the driver’s license number for the truck driver and any other drivers involved, as well as the insurance company name and policy number of the other driver(s). Collect the trucking company's contact information, the driver’s address, email address, full name, and phone number. Seek out any witnesses who saw the accident and obtain their contact information or written statement. Having this information gathered beforehand will help ensure that you are prepared for such a situation and aid in pursuing justice..

[Audio] If an accident or breakdown occurs, contact your insurance company immediately. It is also important to document the incident; truck drivers should take pictures of the scene, any damage, and any injuries to themselves or other passengers. This will help to demonstrate the situation, whether it is in or out of court..

[Audio] When it comes to safety on the roads, time is of the utmost importance. In the event of an emergency, such as an accident, breakdown, or medical emergency, it is crucial that the proper documents and records are maintained. This would include medical bills, medical records, shop bills, proof of income prior to the truck accident, and any other records related to the accident. Furthermore, truck drivers should be mindful of what they say in order to avoid creating potential legal problems. Apologies should be avoided, and any blame should be discussed with a legal counsel before being expressed. By taking the right steps, truck drivers can proactively prepare for any emergencies..

[Audio] If you are involved in an accident, breakdown or medical emergency, it is important to take steps to ensure your rights are respected and you are treated fairly. Firstly, it is vital to seek medical treatment for any injuries, even if they appear minor at the time. Documentation of your medical condition will ensure any issues are addressed appropriately. Getting a medical professional to provide an opinion can also be useful as evidence in court. Lastly, make sure to get legal representation to ensure you are adhering to the laws of your state. Taking these steps is essential for protecting your rights..

[Audio] It is essential for professional truck drivers to be aware of the newest regulations, technology, and techniques in the industry in order to stay relevant. Proficient truck driving skills are vital to ensure both your safety and the safety of other drivers on the road. These skills can be honed through on-road experience as well as comprehensive training programs. The continuous pursuit of improvement, learning, and the growth of skills all contribute to keeping our roads safe..

[Audio] Being a responsible truck driver is of utmost importance in ensuring the safety of all road users. Abiding by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations not only provides safety but also boosts your professional image. Having a clean driving record and a good safety rating will contribute to the industry's good standing in terms of safety and reliability. It is crucial to take a proactive role in compliance to maintain a successful trucking career. By following FMCSA regulations, we can ensure safe transport and maintain our industry's reputation for safety and professionalism..

[Audio] With the ever-increasing speed of the modern world, truck drivers have a lot at stake with their jobs and rigs. Keeping up-to-date with the regulations laid out by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is critical for them to maintain employability and job security. Obeying the laws of the FMCSA benefits the trucking industry by ensuring it can successfully support the essential supply chains on a national and global level. Engaging in FMCSA compliant behavior also demonstrates responsibility and respect for the country's economic activities. The regulations instated by the FMCSA promote a culture of safety and responsibility within the industry; and if observed, sets an example for others to prioritize safety. This, in turn, has a ripple effect that creates safer roads for everyone..

GSM Pacific. Truck Driver Safety :. FMCSA Compliance Completion.