The Federal Motor Carrier Safety and independent trucker have been at odds over safety issues for the past decade.  The Chicago Tribune recently printed an article, Bone-Weary Haulers Raise Stakes on Road, which reported trucking incidents and deaths are on the rise.  The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), in cooperation with its partners and customers, strives to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses.  They have initiated many safety projects.

Some of the more recent changes to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49CFR parts 40,380,382,383 and 390-399) include:

• Cargo Securement
• Drug and Alcohol Program
• Inspection Levels
• Driver Training
• Hours of Service
• Brake Regulations

One area that is requiring more study is the affect of sleep apnea on commercial truck drivers. Many drivers fit the typical of a sleep apnea patient:

• Overweight
• Short Neck
• Male
• Short sleep cycle
• Snore
• High blood pressure

A few years ago, I was working with the Teamster’s Union in Chicago to screen truck drivers for sleep apnea.  First performed an initial at home sleep study.  Those patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea were referred to a hospital sleep lab for further study.  About 70% of the driver’s tested exhibited some form of sleep apnea.  Many were put on a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine.  I was not able to do follow-up research.

The Compliance Resource Center has a 12-module training session that includes:

• Introduction to FMCSR
• Transportation safety
• Driver Requirements
• Driver Knowledge
• Driver employment screening and background checks
• Testing; Drug, Alcohol and Medical
• Hours of Service
• Log books
• Truck Inspections
• Introduction to hazmat
• Loading and unloading hazmat
• Load securement

Companies can mix any of these modules for a 1/2-day, 1-day or 2-day ON-SITE training class.  Call 847-298-3063 or info@thecrcetner.com for more information or a quote.