by Vija Kelly, Optimum HR System Associate
Sentry Insurance Company makes these recommendations for a vehicle operation safety policy:
- Have all employees that will drive on company business sign a Motor Vehicle Record Authorization Form.
- Initiate a process to collect and review MVRs upon initial hire and every two years thereafter.
- Objectively evaluate each employee’s driving background over the last three years.
- Train employees on safe driving techniques and your expectations of their driving conduct.
- Specify disciplinary steps regarding employee driving conduct and MVR checks.
- Conduct drug and alcohol testing of all new employees and on a post-accident basis.
- Prohibit cell phone use while driving; permit use only when the vehicle is fully stopped.
- When possible, assign specific vehicles to employees who conduct parts and supplies delivery.
- Limit employee delivery or pickup operations to a 250 mile radius on preplanned, mapped routes.
- Require drivers to review the weight/configuration of cargo before departing on delivery runs. Secure cargo properly.
- File copies of liability insurance certificated for employees driving personal vehicles on company business. Confirm $300,000 coverage or more.
- Require headlight use at all times.
- Require authorized drivers to notify management immediately of citations or at-fault accidents.
- Practice preventative maintenance.
- Complete and file a monthly vehicle inspection for each company-owned vehicle.
Employee Training
- Train new employees on your safe-driving expectations and annually thereafter.
- Train employees on quality accident reporting, investigation procedures and documentation.
