July Safety Theme: Vehicle Safety & Defensive Driving

Our first full safety month theme came to a close on Sunday. In July we focused on vehicle safety and defensive driving. The road can be one of the most dangerous places to be especially if you’re not taking the necessary safety protocols.

With more than 300 CertaSite trucks and vehicles in our fleet that drive hundreds of miles a week - serving and keeping our customers safe – it is critical that we take our driving practices into review and ensure we are safe every time we get behind the wheel.

Safe Driving

Driving is something most of us do daily. It is also the single most dangerous thing that we do and the number one killer of those under 50 years of age. It is also responsible for more than 50 percent of all work-related fatalities.

Driving is a nationwide hazard. According to Safety Resources, 40,000 people die each year in the U.S. in car-related accidents. Did you know most all accidents occur because of the following?

• Inattention to detail and distractions

• Speeding

• DWI/DUI

• Driving too fast for road conditions

• Failure to yield

Drivers are responsible for the safe operation of their vehicles, and that’s no different for CertaSite fleet drivers. Our fleet drivers are responsible for the safe operation of all company vehicles and equipment. As a driver, it’s always important to remember to perform daily pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections. Go through a checklist and make sure everything is in working order, including:

• Complete internal and external inspection

• Vehicle fluid leaks and levels

• Lights/signals are functioning correctly

• Windows are clean and provide a clear line of sight

• Tires are inflated and have ample tread

• Safety belts are working and not frayed or broken

• Horn, headlights, blinkers, and windshield wipers all work

• Fuel and pressure gauges

Employers, like CertaSite, have a significant role in reducing vehicle crashes. Through workplace policies and education, employers, can help protect their workforce, protect their organizations, and protect employees’ families and communities. As we all know, our employees are our most important asset.

Here are a few more safe driving reminders to ensure you are staying safe on the road.

• Check road conditions

• Evaluate your mental state

• Refrain from driving when stress, emotions, attitude, fatigue and more may affect your ability to drive.

• No drinking or drugs use while driving

• Don’t be a distracted driver. Distracted driving can include texting, visual distractions, cognitive distractions, and manual distractions.

While our safe driving month has concluded, that doesn’t mean our practice discontinues. We must stay on top of all safe driving practices, education, and training to ensure we have the safest vehicles and drivers on the road.

Stay tuned to our social media and blog for more information about August’s safety theme: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).