Fuel transport trucks are an essential part of our economy. Without them, gasoline and diesel fuel do not reach gas stations and your tanks. Safety in the trucking industry is critical to keeping fleets and trucks moving. Source One Transportation is committed to ensuring our drivers, customers, and the general public are always safe. Safety is not an option, but a fundamental aspect of our business that we take seriously.
The Importance of Safety in the Trucking Industry
The sheer size and weight of fuel transport trucks make them a potential hazard on the roads. The consequences of an accident can be devastating, resulting in property damage, financial loss and much worse sometimes loss of life.
Additionally, the trucking industry is highly regulated, with mandatory safety regulations. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established rules and regulations that trucking companies must adhere to, such as hours-of-service regulations, vehicle maintenance requirements, and driver qualification standards. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe penalties and legal action.
The Role of Drivers in Ensuring Safety
Source One transport and tank wagon drivers play a critical role in ensuring safety on the roads. They are responsible for operating large vehicles, in various weather conditions. For this reason, drivers must be well-trained, experienced, and knowledgeable about safety rules and regulations.
Source One invests in ongoing training for our drivers through Smith Systems, the same program utilized by over half of Fortune 500 fleets such as ExxonMobil, FedEx, and Roadway Express, with additional training programs, including OSHA 10 and Safeland.
The Importance of Vehicle Maintenance
Vehicle maintenance is another crucial aspect of safety in the trucking industry. Trucks that are not well-maintained are more likely to experience mechanical failures, which can lead to accidents. Regular maintenance, including inspections, repairs, and servicing, are all essential to ensure that vehicles are in good condition and can operate safely.
Source One replaces fuel transport trucks every five years. By refreshing our fleet regularly, we can minimize the risk of breakdowns and other issues that can negatively impact our customers’ experience.
The Four-Tiered Approach To Safety
We recognize the importance of safety and are committed to ensuring that our drivers, customers, and the public are always safe.
At the highest level, our Executive Safety Committee develops the most effective safety and security protocols for the entire Company. The Safety Committees then decide on the best ways to implement those protocols and address any safety concerns that may arise.
‘Safety Champions’ are then responsible for returning the safety information to their teams and acting as advocates and representatives between the safety committees and the rest of the team. This process ensures that safety practices are disseminated and implemented throughout the Company, down to every employee at Source One.
