Risk Management

Safety: Model Program - Appendix H

Recommended Vehicle Safety Program

Qualifications to Operate a Vehicle

The selection process for vehicle operators should include a review of the driving record, mental and emotional stability, physical handicaps, and records of drug or alcohol abuse.

All operators of state vehicles must have a valid state motor vehicle license. Operators of commercial vehicles must have a valid license to drive the type of vehicle involved. If a license is revoked or suspended, the person may not operate a state vehicle until the license is reinstated.

Operators of special vehicles, off-road vehicles, etc. should receive training before operating the vehicle. Training shall include instruction in inspection, safe operation, and limitations of the vehicle. Operators should demonstrate proficiency in order to operate a specific vehicle.

A supervisor may suspend an operator's driving qualifications if the operator has been found driving while intoxicated, not wearing safety belts, failing to inspect the vehicle, driving recklessly, or any other unsafe use of the vehicle.

Contractors shall require their employees to comply with this requirement.

Inspection of Vehicle

The following vehicle systems should be in operating condition:

1. Service brake and emergency brake
2. Headlights, taillights, brake lights, backup lights, and turn signals
3. Horn
4. Wipers and windshield washer
5. Unobstructed and undamaged windshields and windows and defogging or defrosting devices.
6. Fenders and/or mud flaps
7. Steering and other operating controls
8. Seat belts for each passenger

All defects should be corrected before the vehicle is placed in service.

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The following vehicle equipment should be available as needed:

1. Mounted seats for each passenger
2. All hauling vehicles, whose pay load is loaded by means of cranes, power shovels, loaders, or similar equipment, shall have a cab shield and/or canopy adequate to protect the operator from shifting or falling materials
3. Tools and material transported in the same compartment with employees shall be secured to prevent movement which could injure occupants
4. Trucks with dump bodies shall be equipped with positive means of support, permanently attached, and capable of being locked in position to prevent accidental lowering of the body while maintenance or inspection work is being done
5. Operating levers controlling hoisting or dumping devices on haulage bodies shall be equipped with a latch or other device which will prevent accidental starting or tripping of the mechanism
6. Trip handles for tailgates of dump trucks shall be so arranged that, in dumping, the operator will be in the clear