What to Know About the DOT Hours of Service Updates

October 15, 2020

In July 2020, the Department of Transportation (DOT)/Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) released a Final Rule regarding their hours of service regulations. The goal was to increase flexibility for commercial drivers without negatively affecting highway safety. These changes took effect starting on September 29, 2020. It’s important for motor carriers to understand the most … Continue reading “What to Know About the DOT Hours of Service Updates”

The Steps of a Truck Inspection

September 15, 2020

Safe trucking starts before a driver even gets behind the wheel. If a semi-truck is not working properly, it puts the driver, their cargo, and anyone else on the road in danger. Because of this, the Department of Transportation (DOT) conducts periodic roadside checks of commercial motor vehicles. A truck inspection can happen at any … Continue reading “The Steps of a Truck Inspection”

An Overview of Driver Qualification Files

August 15, 2020

Staying compliant with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations is an ongoing process. It is important to be aware of the requirements for hiring drivers as well as what you need to keep on record throughout their employment. Driver qualification files, also called DQFs, include information about safety-sensitive employees. These files must be properly … Continue reading “An Overview of Driver Qualification Files”

What to Expect From a DOT Audit

June 15, 2020

In order to ensure safety and compliance, the Department of Transportation (DOT) reviews companies that are subject to its regulations. If your trucking company is undergoing a DOT audit, it can be stressful and confusing. Luckily, HDS Safety Services can help you navigate this process. What is a DOT Audit? There are multiple types of … Continue reading “What to Expect From a DOT Audit”

The Importance of Reasonable Suspicion Training

April 15, 2020

Maintaining a drug-free workplace is essential to remain compliant with Department of Transportation (DOT) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations. There are specific times when companies must complete drug and/or alcohol testing. One instance is if a supervisor has reasonable suspicion that a safety-sensitive worker is under the influence. Ensuring that your supervisors … Continue reading “The Importance of Reasonable Suspicion Training”

DOT Guidelines for CBD and Drug Tests

March 15, 2020

With recent changes to federal and state regulations regarding cannabis, it can be confusing for employers who perform drug screening for employees. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has already issued a notice regarding “medical marijuana” use. This clarified that for safety-sensitive employees, a positive drug test result cannot be verified as negative based on a … Continue reading “DOT Guidelines for CBD and Drug Tests”

The History of the FMCSA

February 15, 2020

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is an agency within the United States Department of Transportation (DOT). The main goal of this agency is to improve the safety of the motor carrier industry in order to prevent commercial motor vehicle (CMV) related fatalities and injuries.  More information about the FMCSA’s history: Before the FMCSA … Continue reading “The History of the FMCSA”

When is Alcohol Testing Required?

January 15, 2020

In 1991, the United States Congress passed the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act. This established drug and alcohol testing guidelines for companies and agencies that the Department of Transportation (DOT) governs. It is important for all motor carriers to follow DOT and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines in order to stay compliant and … Continue reading “When is Alcohol Testing Required?”

FMCSA Clearinghouse Compliance for Trucking Companies

December 15, 2019

Use of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Clearinghouse is mandatory beginning January 6, 2020. This means that commercial driver’s license (CDL) drivers, medical review officers, consortiums/third-party administrators (C/TPAs), and employers will be required to register with the Clearinghouse. Registration is currently open and it is important to start to familiarize yourself with the … Continue reading “FMCSA Clearinghouse Compliance for Trucking Companies”

Why Are DOT Physicals Necessary?

November 15, 2019

The Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) require DOT physicals for safety-sensitive transportation employees. These medical exams ensure truck drivers are in good health and can safely operate a commercial vehicle. Motor carriers must keep up-to-date records of their drivers’ DOT physical exams and test results.  It is important … Continue reading “Why Are DOT Physicals Necessary?”