Developing a Safety Training System from the Ground Up
Lisa Lamons, Safety Training and DOT Compliance Director at Concrete Strategies, has been instrumental in developing the company’s safety training program since 2016. With 15 years of experience working with the Missouri Dept. of Transportation, Lamons has a deep understanding of the importance of safety in the construction industry. When asked about her role, Lamons explained that she “literally developed our program from the ground up” when she started nine years ago. The company’s DOT record needed improvement, and Lamons has since grown the program to become a phenomenal success.
A Comprehensive Training System
Concrete Strategies operates in seven states and has a fleet of 156 vehicles, including concrete mixer trucks, semi-tractor trailers, pump trucks, and roll-off trucks. The company has approximately 50 approved CDL drivers and 77 approved non-CDL drivers, who are not all assigned to specific vehicles. Lamons explained that the training system is a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training. All new employee drivers undergo orientation and driver training, which includes computer-based training, hands-on skills evaluations, and a driver qualifications file review. The training program also includes refresher training throughout the year, focusing on topics such as pre-trip checks, distracted driving, fatigued driving, and safety and fitness electronic records.
Vehicle Maintenance and Safety Scores
Concrete Strategies uses a system to track vehicle maintenance and safety scores, which are reviewed annually. The company shares these scores with its drivers, who are responsible for maintaining their vehicles and following safety protocols. The scores are used to identify areas for improvement and inform policy changes. Lamons emphasized the importance of transparency and involving drivers in the process.
Ride-Alongs and Driver Feedback
Lamons conducts periodic ride-alongs with drivers to assess their performance and provide feedback. The company uses the Smith System, where drivers are encouraged to call out driving distractions or issues while driving safely. This approach helps Lamons gauge the drivers’ awareness of their surroundings and adherence to safety protocols. She also emphasizes the importance of non-driving aspects, such as maintaining and using equipment.
Training for Non-CDL Drivers
Concrete Strategies also provides training for non-CDL drivers, who are required to understand and be certified in the equipment they operate.
Telematics and Driver-Facing Cameras
The company uses Verizon Connect and SureCam Cameras to track key safety metrics, such as speed, rapid acceleration, sharp turns, and harsh braking. While Lamons is open to the idea of driver-facing cameras, she notes that they may raise concerns about driver distraction.
Expanding the Program
Concrete Strategies is currently exploring ways to expand its fatigue management program, which aims to fine-tune the system and provide more effective support for drivers.
Advice for Companies Building a Program Like Yours
Lamons offers several key takeaways for companies building a safety training program like Concrete Strategies:
* Be transparent and involve drivers in the process
* Train, train, train, focusing on safety rather than compliance
* Use a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training
* Regularly review and update the program to address emerging issues
By following these principles, companies can develop a comprehensive safety training program that prioritizes driver safety and well-being.
