ADS Logistics, which has a fleet of 350 flatbeds and specialized trailers for hauling heavy loads of specialized metals, has received SafeFleet certification from the insurance company Aon. The insurer's evaluation program requires that a carrier exceed national safety standards by at least 15% for three consecutive years.
ADS' fleet operation, Area Transportation, runs both company-owned and leased equipment throughout North America, distributing specialty metals to manufacturers, consumers and other users. It earned the Aon recognition by exceeding Federal Motor Carrier Safety Admin. (FMCSA) performance standards by 18% over the last three years. Aon's risk services group also conducted on-site audits of the fleet's mileage records, accident registers and OSHA performance before granting the SafeFleet designation, according to the insurer.
"We know that customers are looking at safety as an important aspect of carrier performance," said Kevin Mullen, dir. of safety for ADS. "This certification is recognition of the hard work, dedication to safety and professionalism of all our drivers, dispatchers and support staff."
Among the FMCSA statistics used to evaluate fleets for the program are vehicle and driver out of service, DOT crash rate per million mi., and crash related injuries and fatalities. Earning SafeFleet Certification not only proves a company's commitment to safety, but can also lead to better insurance rates, improved fleet image and increased driver retention, according to Aon.
