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By Thomas Holden, Owner and CEO of Transportation Advisors and EZ-Drugtest

The landscape of transportation safety has evolved significantly, with an emphasis on stricter regulations and higher safety standards. The “Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act” (MAP-21), signed into law by President Obama in 2012, is back in full swing, bringing pivotal changes that im

Tom Holden

pact carriers, drivers, and the entire transportation industry.

Core Principles

MAP-21’s core principles are designed to enhance road safety and efficiency, focusing on the following key areas:

1). Raise the Bar: Stricter entry requirements for carriers and drivers.

2). High Safety Standards: Enforcing rigorous safety standards for motor carriers and drivers.

3). Risk Reduction: Identifying and removing high-risk drivers, vehicles, and carriers from the roads.

Notable Changes

One of the significant updates under MAP-21 is the Coercion Rule, which empowers the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to take action against carriers, shippers, and intermediaries that force drivers to violate safety regulations. This rule aims to protect drivers from undue pressure to compromise on safety standards.

Audit Process

Understanding the audit process under MAP-21 is crucial for maintaining compliance and ensuring smooth operations. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and how to prepare:

1). Notice and Introduction:

• You will receive an email notification about the audit.
• Respond promptly and request a slight delay if necessary.
• Ensure the owner or a representative is present for the initial meet and greet.

2). Professionalism and Politeness:

• Maintain a professional demeanor and be polite.
• Investigators cannot accept any gifts or incentives.

3). Required Documentation:

• Driver List: Include both CDL and non-CDL drivers.
• Accident Registerand Equipment List.
• Investigation Questionnaire.

4). DQ Files: Ensure compliance with requirements such as drug tests, clearinghouse records, medical card verification, and previous employment verification.

5). RODS: Address common issues like understanding the 150-mile rule, managing pre-trip and post-trip inspections, and logging requirements.

6). Other Requests:

• Have policies and procedures, including drug and alcohol policies, readily available.
• Maintain records of driver safety meetings and disciplinary actions.

Personal Conveyance And HOS Review

Personal conveyance, the movement of a commercial motor vehicle for personal use while off-duty, must be clearly understood and documented. Additionally, regular Hours of Service (HOS) reviews are essential to ensure compliance and maximize driver availability.

Conclusion

As the transportation industry continues to adapt to new regulations, staying informed and prepared is critical. By adhering to MAP-21 guidelines and maintaining high safety standards, carriers can ensure not only compliance but also the safety and efficiency of their operations.

By embracing these principles and staying proactive, your safety department can navigate today’s audits with confidence and clarity.

For more detailed guidance and assistance, consider consulting with industry experts or utilizing services like those offered by Transportation Advisors and EZ-Drugtest. Call 980-999-8484 or visit theadvisors.org.