Safety RuleTargets New Entrants
A new safety rule is going to make it harder to get into the trucking business.
The rule says that each newcomer to interstate trucking must certify that he understands the safety rules and pass a safety audit before he can get permanent registration.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is targeting new companies because data show that they are less likely to comply with safety rules and more likely to be involved in accidents. The agency plans to make the rule effective at the end of the year.
Congress originally wanted new entrants to pass a proficiency exam, but the agency said that certification, education and the audit will ensure that unsafe operators are weeded out.
Under the rule, new entrants must certify in writing that they have systems in place to comply with federal safety rules -- including driver certification, hours of service, drug and alcohol testing, vehicle condition, accident monitoring and hazmat transport.
When the application forms -- including the certification -- are complete, the company gets a DOT number and can open for business under temporary registration.
Within 18 months, it will be audited by the safety agency. The audit generally will take place at company headquarters, and will examine the safety management program. Among other things, it will cover record-keeping for key safety items such as driver qualifications, hours of service and vehicle condition. It will include an interview with management.
If the company clears the audit, it will be issued a permanent registration at the end of its 18-month period. If it does not, it will have a chance to make corrections. If it does not make the corrections, its registration can be revoked.
For more information, contact Larry Minor of FMCSA at 202-366-4009.
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