Build a Safer Operation from the Ground Up
Whether you're run your fleet with your own driver staff, outsource your driver workforce to a managed service provider, or enjoy a hybrid of the two - a strong safety foundation reduces risk, protects your drivers, and drives real cost savings. Use this checklist to evaluate your current safety practices and identify areas for improvement.
✅ 1. Hiring & Onboarding
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Do you have a consistent vetting process for all drivers (CDL checks, MVR, prior employment, background checks)?
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Are DOT qualification files up to date and audited regularly?
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Is safety covered thoroughly during onboarding—not just compliance?
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Do you assess new drivers for cultural fit and professionalism?
✅ 2. Training & Coaching
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Do drivers receive initial and refresher training on safety procedures?
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Is training tailored to equipment type, route conditions, or freight type?
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Are near-misses or incidents used as coaching opportunities—not just discipline?
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Do managers regularly review safety performance with drivers?
✅ 3. Daily Operations
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Are pre-trip and post-trip inspections documented and reviewed?
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Is equipment regularly maintained and issues addressed promptly?
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Are drivers encouraged to report safety concerns without fear of reprisal?
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Is there a clear process for weather-related or fatigue-based scheduling changes?
✅ 4. Telematics & Behavior Monitoring
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Are you using telematics, ELDs, or dash cams to monitor driver behavior?
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Do you track critical indicators like harsh braking, speeding, or lane deviation?
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Are those insights turned into coaching—not just reporting?
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Do drivers have visibility into their performance and ways to improve?
✅ 5. Compliance & Documentation
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Are you consistently meeting FMCSA and DOT safety requirements?
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Is your CSA score actively monitored and understood by leadership?
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Are driver qualification and medical records up to date and digitized?
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Are audits or inspections prepared for in advance—not just reactive?
✅ 6. Incident Response & Reporting
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Do you have a formal protocol for accidents, incidents, and near-misses?
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Is your team trained on how to respond quickly and document thoroughly?
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Are trends in safety incidents tracked and addressed systemically?
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Do you involve drivers in safety debriefs and improvement planning?
✅ 7. Safety Culture & Communication
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Is safety discussed regularly in meetings and internal comms?
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Are safe driving milestones recognized and celebrated?
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Do you survey drivers about safety conditions or concerns?
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Are all departments (HR, ops, dispatch) aligned on safety priorities?
🚦 Total Score:
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30–35 checks: You’re operating at a high level—keep reinforcing safety leadership.
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20–29 checks: Strong foundation, but opportunities for improvement exist.
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<20 checks: Consider tightening processes and seeking external support.
Need help identifying your biggest safety gaps—or finding drivers who meet your standards?
TransForce partners with fleets to deliver safety-first workforce solutions that reduce risk and protect your bottom line.