Driver Safety _ Working Alone
Truck drivers are not unique to working alone. However, in most industries work alone in the same environment. Drivers work alone in multiple environments and face tough challenges keeping themselves safe.
There are several areas of risk, including driving. For now, I will focus on when the truck is stopped. Over the road Safety starts with a good pre-trip. This is not news to any professional truck driver. However, breaking
down increases your exposure to the unknown. It’s important to ensure your vehicle is in top shape to keep you rolling.
Should you find yourself on the side of the road, here are a few Safety Tips.
Keep your Side boxes locked. Don’t leave the side door release latch accessible.
If you are approached by a person, who you did not call for help, do not exit the vehicle. Lock
your doors.
For Back up, turn your phone on to record the conversation. If the vehicle stops ahead, take a
photo of the person, vehicle and license plate.
Close your bunk curtains as they approach. This will provide the illusion there is another person
with you.
Do not disclose what is wrong with the vehicle or any load information.
Tell them help is arriving imminently.
Carry a basic tool kit, waterproof flashlight
Carry two days of food and water
Keep a travel toilet in the truck for places where you feel unsafe to leave the truck.
Keep your curtains closed to give the illusion of a co-driver
Keep your cell phone fully charged and within reach in the bunk.
Never walk between trailers. Take the long way around.
Carry flip flops, always wear them in the showers
If you are concerned about security while sleeping, tie the driver and passenger door together with a ratchet strap.
In the Yard – Truck Stops, Rest Areas, Customers
First and foremost, be aware of your surroundings. That may sound simple, but for a truck driver, it’s not.
There are a lot of blind spots where risks can lurk.
Here are a few questions to help evaluate your risk:
What are my surroundings?
Is the yard secured, or is there a guard? Is the ground level? Is there a tripping risk?
Are there people in the yard? Are they employees?
Know your work alone policy. Send a note to dispatch when you arrive at the facility. And when you leave.
Call the customer ahead of time, ask if it is safe to park onsite. Is there security, driver facilities?
What can Companies do to keep their drivers safe?
Well-lit yards.
Provide facilities that lock – ie bathroom, showers
Work alone policy. Use a check in AP or company communication device. Have a road buddy to keep in touch with – check in regularly.
Keep notes on customer facilities. Rate their driver safety for reference.
Use an Emergency response phone APP for drivers.
Provide PPE for the job.
Deborah Gee is a CITT (CCLP) and RPR certified professional. Experienced class 1 driver with LTL, FTL and Heavy Haul. Deborah is currently a regional recruiter for Trimac Transportation in Calgary, Alberta. Deborah has been involved with WTFC since it’s inception and is on the board of directors. You can reach her at dgee@trimac.com
