Speaking at the recent Health and Personal Care Distribution Conference, he added that there are three key safety and security areas transportation companies should improve upon. Karvois said companies need greater scrutiny of job applicants, drivers need to be more aware of security needs and that companies need to adopt the Homeland Security Advisory System
Carriers should look for frequent job changes and gaps in driving record, check all motor-vehicle driving records and previously held licenses, verify U.S. citizenship and perform complete criminal background checks, Karvois said. He added that drivers should display a company photo identification badge or other visible identification at all times, and that drivers also should not discuss what they are carrying during C.B. radio conversations.
Karvois said drivers should vary driving routes and should select well-lit, reputable truck stops along those routes for refueling and food needs.
He also said carriers need to gain access to more comprehensive background check information and have some sort of controlled access to FBI systems and the INS database to make sure their checks are thorough.
"The days of some nameless, faceless driver picking up a hazardous material load and driving across the country are gone," said Karvois. "No longer can a terminal manager only focus on the safety of a small terminal area. Today, the transportation industry needs to focus on the whole supply chain nationwide."
