The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires all trucking companies maintain certain records. These records are necessary to ensure the safety of both the drivers and the public. Here are the record-keeping requirements that all trucking companies must meet for DOT safety compliance help.
1. Driver Qualification Files
Trucking companies must maintain a file for each driver that includes information such as the driver’s application, medical examiner’s certificate, and training records. This file must be updated and available for review by DOT officials.
2. Hours of Service Logs
Trucking companies must keep logs of their drivers’ hours of service. These logs help ensure drivers are not driving too many hours without a break. The log will contain information like:
-The date
-The driver’s name
-The truck’s identification number
-The total miles driven that day
-The hours spent driving
3. Vehicle Maintenance Records
According to the rules of the DOT trucking companies, they must keep records of all maintenance and repairs done on their vehicles. These records help ensure that the vehicles are safe to operate. The records should include the date of the service, the odometer reading, a description of the work done, and the cost of the repairs.
Some trucking companies use software to keep track of their maintenance records. Others use paper records. Either way, it is essential to have a system that works for you and that you can easily access when you need it.
For example, an odometer is a device fitted to a vehicle that records the distance traveled. This information can be used to help plan maintenance and repairs.
The information in these records can also be used to monitor the performance of the vehicles and drivers. For instance, if a driver is consistently having problems with a particular vehicle, that driver may need more training, or the vehicle may need to be taken out of service.
Keeping accurate and up-to-date maintenance records is essential to running a safe and efficient trucking operation.
4. Accident Reports
The trucking company must file an accident report with the DOT whenever a truck is involved in an accident. These reports help improve road safety by providing data that can be used to identify trends and potential hazards.
5. Drug and Alcohol Testing Records
Trucking companies must keep records of all drug and alcohol tests conducted on their drivers. These records help ensure drivers are not under the influence while operating a commercial vehicle.
6. Shipping Papers
For each load shipped, the trucking company must have shipping papers that include information such as the commodity being shipped, the origin and destination of the shipment, and the carrier’s name. These papers help to ensure that loads are being shipped safely and correctly.
7. Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports
At the end of each day, drivers must inspect their vehicles and complete a report detailing any defects or problems they found. These reports help to ensure that vehicles are safe and in good working condition.
Conclusion
The DOT requires all trucking companies to maintain certain records to ensure the safety of drivers and the public. These record-keeping requirements cover service hours, vehicle maintenance, drug testing, shipping papers, etc. All trucking companies must meet these requirements to operate legally within the United States.
