Safety Checklist for Fleets

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

• Do you have a consistent vetting process for all drivers (CDL checks, MVR, prior employment, background checks)?

• Are DOT qualification files up to date and audited regularly?

• Is safety covered thoroughly during onboarding—not just compliance?

• Do you assess new drivers for cultural fit and professionalism?

✅ 2. Training & Coaching

• Do drivers receive initial and refresher training on safety procedures?

• Is training tailored to equipment type, route conditions, or freight type?

• Are near-misses or incidents used as coaching opportunities—not just discipline?

• Do managers regularly review safety performance with drivers?

✅ 3. Daily Operations

• Are pre-trip and post-trip inspections documented and reviewed?

• Is equipment regularly maintained and issues addressed promptly?

• Are drivers encouraged to report safety concerns without fear of reprisal?

• Is there a clear process for weather-related or fatigue-based scheduling changes?

✅ 4. Telematics & Behavior Monitoring

• Are you using telematics, ELDs, or dash cams to monitor driver behavior?

• Do you track critical indicators like harsh braking, speeding, or lane deviation?

• Are those insights turned into coaching—not just reporting?

• Do drivers have visibility into their performance and ways to improve?

✅ 5. Compliance & Documentation

• Are you consistently meeting FMCSA and DOT safety requirements?

• Is your CSA score actively monitored and understood by leadership?

• Are driver qualification and medical records up to date and digitized?

• Are audits or inspections prepared for in advance—not just reactive?

✅ 6. Incident Response & Reporting

• Do you have a formal protocol for accidents, incidents, and near-misses?

• Is your team trained on how to respond quickly and document thoroughly?

• Are trends in safety incidents tracked and addressed systemically?

• Do you involve drivers in safety debriefs and improvement planning?

✅ 7. Safety Culture & Communication

• Is safety discussed regularly in meetings and internal comms?

• Are safe driving milestones recognized and celebrated?

• Do you survey drivers about safety conditions or concerns?

• Are all departments (HR, ops, dispatch) aligned on safety priorities?

🚦 Total Score:

• 30–35 checks: You’re operating at a high level—keep reinforcing safety leadership.

• 20–29 checks: Strong foundation, but opportunities for improvement exist.

• <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.

👉 Let’s Talk Safety