Category Archives: Transportation Safety

Rules of the Road

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Many organizations utilize some form of transportation in providing their mission to the community. I suppose it is generally assumed that these risks are acceptable for the organization to take on. But let’s look at this issue a little bit.

First off, is this a risk that HAS to be part of what we do? Can we share some of this risk by contracting with someone else? Can we avoid the risk by not providing any transportation at all? After we discuss these questions and decided to assume some or all of these risks what should we do next?

An effective way to manage the risks associated with transportation is to create a policy for a transportation program. The policy will outline the procedures that must be developed to better manage the risks associated with the activities. These procedures include, screening of drivers, training, vehicle selection and management, supervision and safety activities such regular inspection and emergency review. Some sample information about policy and procedures is available in the Online Resource Library.

Another transportation risk that organizations often ignore is that of staff using personal vehicles for business. From an enterprise look this can cause issues if someone representing the organization causes harm through the use of their vehicle. While their personal auto insurance is primary, there may be greater harm caused than the coverage can assist with, not to mention PR implications. Some workers’ comp carriers even require organizations to set some procedures for screening staff and managing this exposure. Think about it for a second… do staff ever carpool to a training event? Wouldn’t it be best to know which staff member should get behind the wheel? How about the CEO that uses their vehicle while they’re out in the community? Or the childcare supervisor that needs to visit a number of offsite locations? How about someone purchasing supplies at the local Wal-Mart or Home Depot? These are exposures that should be considered as well.

Mike Gurtler, Safe-Wise Consulting

More information about transportation safety is available in the Online Resource Library

Making a List and Checking it Twice!

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Okay, so its not time to be thinking of Santa, but I was thinking of lists today.

I regularly visit and audit YMCAs, YWCAs, JCCs and clubs. I frequently encounter systems (or lack of systems) to manage and track daily, weekly and monthly maintenance and housekeeping functions that could be strengthened. These functions, which are designed to keep patrons and employees safe, can be well-managed with checklists and logs.

Checklists and logs are generally accepted as good management tools for these type of redundant functions where documentation of inspections is important. Checklists help manage and track scheduled tasks such as checking emergency lighting, exit signage lighting, program area and hallway lighting, AED batteries and pads, pool emergency alarms, obstructed electric panels, obstructed emergency exit doors, tripping and slipping hazards, etc. Logs may include tracking emergency action plan (EAP) drills such as state-mandated fire emergency drills and regular vehicle maintenance checks. They may also include life-threatening aquatic or fitness center emergency drills and lost camper drills.

Checklists and logs do not have to be complicated. The use of an Excel spread sheet with all items to be checked listed in one column and check dates listed in another column is very effective. Forms work well too. Items such as emergency lights can be individually numbered for ease of identification. Checklists and logs encourage compliance with the completion of scheduled tasks, provide written documentation that a task was completed, serve as reminders and also provide legal documentation.

Christopher Mogridge – Safe-Wise Consulting

Sample forms, checklists and logs on various topics can be found in the Safe-Wise Online Resource Library.