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Ask the Safety Rep: Can I purge driver qualification documents?

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations (FMCSR) require a motor carrier to maintain a driver qualification file for each driver it employs. Part 391.51 specifies which documents must be contained in this file. However, paragraph (d) of the regulation allows a motor carrier to purge specific documents from the file. The following regulations specify the duration each document must be maintained by employers as of September 1, 2017. We recommend that motor carriers review these requirements periodically to keep current.
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Avoiding Crashes at Railroad Crossings

Side-impact collisions that occur between a tractor/trailer and train can result in devastating losses. The key to preventing crashes while crossing railroad tracks is to be able to recognize the hazards that increase the likelihood of a crash and take appropriate defensive measures. Read the information below and ask yourself if there are actions you can take to improve your driving skills and reduce the risk of a crash.
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The FMCSA & E-Logs: Know the Rules and Consequences

FMCSA released the new CVSA inspection bulletin pertaining to Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) and Automatic On-Board Recording Devices (AOBRDs). The rules beginning December 18, 2017, are outlined below. 
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Four Keys to Building a Fleet of Quality Drivers

Today’s trucking environment presents many challenges to motor carriers, but successful organizations know how to turn these challenges into opportunities. 
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Time to Discuss Fall Driving Hazards

As summer comes to an end, the transition to fall presents its own set of challenges to drivers, and motor carriers should be proactive in communicating these hazards to the fleet.
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Broaden Your Fleet's Field of View with Fender-Mounted Mirrors

Lane change crashes pose a clear and present danger to motor carriers. The trucking industry has made commendable efforts to educate the public about avoiding blind spots around large trucks, but because of federal requirements mandating only two rear-vision mirrors on every tractor, it stands to reason that motor carriers should do more to expand the driver's field of view around the truck to help reduce the risk of a critical crash.
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Shop Safety: Fall Prevention

Slips and falls are the leading cause of workplace injuries. These incidents often result in traumatic head, neck, back, and other serious injuries which affect you, your family, coworkers, and employer. In addition to the pain and possibility of temporary or permanent disability, a slip and fall injury could cost you in terms of lost wages, out-of-pocket medical expenses, and your ability to enjoy the people and activities you love. The key to preventing slips and falls is to be able to recognize hazards and take defensive measures to protect you from injury.
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Are You Ready? The Time Is Now – ELD FAQs

This is meant to be a summary of information contained in the rule. Be sure to review the rule and seek any legal advice from counsel. This material contains suggestions, and companies should find an approach that fits their unique operations best. Below is a list of several FAQs; for more FAQs and information, please visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) FAQ page at https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/hours-service/elds/faqs 
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Mirror Use

The mirrors on a commercial motor vehicle are an essential piece of safety equipment. Mirrors can help skilled drivers manage the space around the truck and avoid crashes while changing lanes, backing, and turning. Mirrors require proper care and maintenance, however, and truck drivers must be able to recognize the hazards that can potentially render a mirror useless. Read the information below and ask yourself if there are actions you can take to improve your driving skills and reduce the risk of a crash with better use of your truck’s mirrors.
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Are You Ready? The Time Is Now – ELD Return on Investment

This is meant to be a summary of information contained in the rule. Be sure to review the rule and seek any legal advice from counsel. This material contains suggestions, and companies should find an approach that fits their unique operations best.
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