The Safety Standard

When people think of DOT compliance, the focus often falls on hours-of-service rules, driver qualifications, or drug and alcohol testing. But there’s another piece that is just as important—yet frequently overlooked: vehicle maintenance.

Neglecting this critical area doesn’t just risk citations and fines—it can also lead to serious safety hazards on the road.

Why Vehicle Maintenance Matters

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all motor carriers to systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles (49 CFR §396.3). These rules are in place to ensure that vehicles are roadworthy and safe for both drivers and the public.

Failure to comply can result in:

• Costly penalties

• Out-of-service orders

• Higher CSA scores

• Increased risk of accidents

In short, staying on top of maintenance is not only a compliance issue—it’s a safety imperative.

OSHA and DOT: How They Overlap

While the DOT focuses on vehicles being safe for highway use, OSHA has requirements to protect workers during inspections, repairs, and operations in the workplace. Both agencies expect organizations to:

• Keep vehicles in safe operating condition

• Remove unsafe vehicles from service until repaired

• Train employees on safe inspection and maintenance practices (OSHA Motor Vehicle Safety)

This overlap means organizations must think of vehicle maintenance as part of both compliance and overall workplace safety.

Why Maintenance Gets Overlooked

Even the most experienced operators sometimes underestimate maintenance needs. Common reasons include:

• Cost pressures – Cutting corners to save money in the short term

• Scheduling challenges – Difficulty coordinating downtime for inspections and repairs

• Recordkeeping gaps – Missing or incomplete logs, which are required during audits

• Complacency – Assuming “if it’s running, it must be fine”

Unfortunately, the consequences of overlooking maintenance often cost far more than proactive upkeep.

What Strong Vehicle Maintenance Looks Like

A solid vehicle maintenance program should include:

1. Preventive Maintenance

Regularly scheduled service checks (tires, brakes, fluids, lights, etc.) prevent small problems from turning into major issues.

2. Daily Driver Inspections

DOT requires pre-trip and post-trip inspections to ensure safety-critical parts are functioning (FMCSA Vehicle Inspection Requirements).

3. Accurate Recordkeeping

FMCSA requires that inspection and maintenance records be retained for at least one year, plus six months after a vehicle leaves your control (FMCSA Guidance).

4. Integration with Workplace Safety

Maintenance work should also follow OSHA safety standards to protect technicians and operators (OSHA Vehicle Maintenance).

5. Adoption of Safety Technology

Using tools such as diagnostic software, collision warning systems, or telematics helps identify risks earlier and keeps fleets roadworthy.

The Bigger Picture: Compliance and Safety

Vehicle maintenance is about more than “passing an audit.” It ensures safer roads, fewer breakdowns, and better protection for employees and the communities they serve.

By making maintenance part of the culture—not just a checklist—organizations strengthen both compliance and long-term operational efficiency.

Final Thoughts

Vehicle maintenance is the backbone of DOT compliance. Skipping it can lead to violations, preventable accidents, and serious financial loss. Consistent inspections, proper records, and proactive repairs are what keep your fleet safe and compliant.

At Sentry Road, we can help your organization stay ahead of compliance requirements—whether it’s vehicle maintenance tracking or other key safety programs—so you can focus on moving forward with confidence.

Why Safety Compliance Matters More Than Ever

Workplace safety compliance is not optional—it’s essential for protecting workers, avoiding fines, and ensuring smooth operations. Yet year after year, OSHA reports thousands of violations across industries. From machine guarding to lockout/tagout, many of these violations are preventable with the right systems in place.

This is where safety compliance technology comes in. Digital tools are transforming the way organizations monitor, document, and enforce compliance standards, helping reduce risks and violations before they happen.

The Challenge: Why Violations Persist

Even the most experienced organizations face recurring compliance issues. Common struggles include:

• Recordkeeping errors – Paper records are easily lost, outdated, or incomplete.

• Missed deadlines – Training expirations or inspection schedules slip through the cracks.

• Communication gaps – Employees may not receive or retain critical compliance updates.

• Reactive fixes – Problems are often addressed only after an incident or inspection.

The result? OSHA’s Top 10 Most Cited Violations rarely change year to year. For example, OSHA continues to rank machine guarding, hazard communication, and fall protection among the most common violations.

How Safety Compliance Technology Makes a Difference

1. Automated Training & Reminders

Technology can track training requirements across large teams, sending automated reminders when certifications are due. This helps ensure workers stay current on requirements like OSHA safety courses or FMCSA driver compliance training.

2. Digital Recordkeeping

Cloud-based platforms keep training records, inspection logs, and compliance reports organized and accessible. This not only saves time during audits but also reduces the risk of penalties from missing or inaccurate documentation.

3. Real-Time Monitoring

In fleet and facility environments, sensors and telematics can provide real-time feedback on unsafe conditions. For example, automatic braking systems or driver fatigue monitors give immediate data that organizations can act on.

4. Compliance Analytics

Technology enables leaders to spot patterns in violations, near misses, or inspection failures. With this data, organizations can shift from reactive fixes to proactive prevention.

Reducing OSHA Violations Through Technology

The impact of safety compliance technology is clear:

• Fewer repeat violations – By tracking corrective actions, organizations avoid making the same mistakes.

• Lower penalties – Compliance software ensures records are ready for inspectors, reducing costly fines.

• Increased accountability – Digital systems assign responsibility clearly, closing gaps where issues often arise.

A strong example is the move toward electronic logging devices (ELDs) in the transportation sector. Mandated by FMCSA, these systems virtually eliminated the risks of paper log manipulation while giving fleets better visibility into driver behavior.

Building a Culture of Compliance with Technology

It’s important to remember that technology is not a replacement for leadership—it’s a tool that supports it. Safety leaders must still:

• Set expectations consistently.

• Hold everyone accountable, from new hires to experienced staff.

• Use digital data as a conversation starter, not just a report.

This aligns closely with our previous coverage on Building a Culture of Safety, where consistent leadership and accountability were shown to make compliance part of everyday operations.

How This Links to Our Previous Coverage

We’ve highlighted related issues in other recent Sentry Road blogs:

• Machine Guarding & Lockout/Tagout Safety – one of OSHA’s most cited areas of noncompliance.

• Building a Culture of Safety– showing how leadership and accountability drive compliance success.

These examples underscore the same point: combining leadership with the right tools creates safer workplaces.

Staying Ahead with Safety Compliance Technology

Technology is reshaping how organizations manage safety and compliance. From automated reminders to real-time monitoring, these tools help reduce OSHA violations, lower costs, and—most importantly—keep workers safe.

At Sentry Road, we provide solutions and training designed to help organizations integrate compliance into their daily operations and reduce risk across the board.

Ready to make safety compliance easier? Let’s talk about how Sentry Road can support your team.

In late June 2025, FMCSA began enforcing the English-language requirement for commercial drivers more aggressively — and the numbers are already making headlines. According to Transport Topics, more than 1,200 drivers have been placed out of service since enforcement began. Other outlets report totals as high as ~1,500 as inspections continue across the U.S.

While the numbers are striking, they’re also a direct result of policy changes that have been in motion since spring 2025.

What Changed in 2025

In April 2025, a federal order directed the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to restore full enforcement of the English-language proficiency requirement found in 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2).

FMCSA responded with updated guidance (effective June 25, 2025) outlining how inspectors should determine compliance:

1. Start in English – All roadside inspections begin in English.

2. Two-step assessment – If the driver struggles, inspectors conduct:

   • A verbal interview to assess conversational comprehension.

   • A traffic sign recognition check to confirm ability to read/understand highway signs in English.

3. No translation aids – Interpreters and translation apps are not part of the initial inspection process.

If a driver fails this assessment, they may be placed out of service under CVSA’s updated criteria.

Why It’s Making an Impact Now

Before 2025, enforcement of the English-language requirement was inconsistent, with some states applying the rule more strictly than others. The recent directive and FMCSA guidance created a uniform national standard, which is now being applied at scale.

According to Transport Topics, the most common reason for removal was failing the verbal communication portion of the inspection.

What This Means for Fleets

For carriers and fleet managers, this isn’t just about avoiding violations — it’s about ensuring drivers are prepared before they’re on the road.

The risks include:

• Operational disruption – An out-of-service order takes a driver and truck off the road immediately.

• Compliance costs – Delays, potential fines, and administrative follow-up.

• Safety concerns – Inability to read traffic signs or communicate with enforcement can create serious hazards.

How This Links to Our Previous Coverage

We’ve covered these shifts in prior Sentry Road blogs:

• Understanding FMCSA’s English Requirement for Drivers — Explains 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2) and what inspectors look for.

• English Proficiency Training Now Available from Sentry Road — Introduces our free course designed to help fleets prepare drivers ahead of enforcement.

Preparing Your Drivers

If you operate in interstate commerce or any area covered by FMCSA regulations, every driver needs to be able to:

• Communicate clearly in English with enforcement officials.

• Read and understand traffic signs and signals in English.

• Write simple messages and complete standard forms.

FMCSA offers full details of the requirement in 49 CFR § 391.11(b)(2).

Final Takeaway

The 2025 enforcement shift is already changing operations for fleets nationwide. Whether your drivers are seasoned veterans or new hires, now is the time to ensure they meet English-language proficiency standards.

Sentry Road offers a free online English Proficiency Course to help fleets prepare drivers before they face an inspection. Contact us to learn more and protect your operations from avoidable downtime.

Preventing workplace injuries isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting lives. Two of the most critical safeguards in industrial safety are machine guarding and lockout/tagout (LOTO). Together, they serve as frontline defenses against some of the most severe and preventable accidents.

This article explores the key requirements of machine guarding and LOTO, common pitfalls, and best practices to strengthen your safety program. Whether you're building your safety culture from the ground up or looking to refine it, understanding these two concepts is foundational.

Why Machine Guarding and Lockout/Tagout Matter

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), machine guarding ranks consistently among OSHA’s top 10 most cited violations. Similarly, Lockout/Tagout (29 CFR 1910.147) is one of the leading causes of citations and workplace incidents, especially in manufacturing and heavy industry.

Both types of controls are designed to prevent workers from coming into contact with moving parts, energized systems, or stored energy—hazards that can cause crushing injuries, amputations, electrocutions, and fatalities.

What is Machine Guarding?

Machine guarding involves physical barriers or devices that protect workers from hazardous moving parts during operation. These hazards can include rotating parts, flying chips, sparks, or pinch points.

Types of machine guards:

• Fixed guards – Permanent barriers that prevent access to dangerous areas.

• Interlocked guards – Shut off power when opened or removed.

• Adjustable guards – Can be positioned to fit different sizes of material.

• Self-adjusting guards – Automatically adjust to the size of the material being fed.

Examples of machines that require guarding:

• Power presses

• Conveyors

• Grinders

• Shears

• Saws

• Milling machines

OSHA’s machine guarding requirements are outlined in 29 CFR 1910 Subpart O.

What is Lockout/Tagout?

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) refers to the procedures and devices used to ensure that machines are properly shut down and cannot be restarted while maintenance or servicing is being performed.

This is critical because hazardous energy—from electricity, hydraulics, pneumatics, or even gravity—can cause injury if unexpectedly released.

Key elements of an effective LOTO program:

• Written energy control procedures

• Authorized employee training

• Lockout/tagout devices (padlocks, tags, hasps)

• Periodic inspections of procedures

• Documentation of completed lockouts

The standard that governs LOTO is 29 CFR 1910.147, which outlines who must be trained, what procedures must be followed, and when they apply.

Real-World Compliance Challenges

Even well-intentioned companies face challenges implementing these safety measures. Common pitfalls include:

• Failing to train all affected employees – Only authorized individuals may perform LOTO, but others must still understand the hazards.

• Improper use of guards – Workers may bypass or remove guards for convenience if training and oversight are lacking.

• Missing written procedures – OSHA requires documentation for each machine or piece of equipment with a unique energy source.

• No periodic inspections – Annual reviews ensure procedures remain effective and relevant.

• Inadequate supervision – Safety controls must be reinforced by regular observation and correction of unsafe behaviors.

Best Practices for Safer Operations

Here are strategies to improve your machine guarding and lockout/tagout programs:

✅ Conduct a hazard assessment of all machinery
✅ Provide clear and repeated training for employees
✅ Use color-coded tags and locks for clarity
✅ Store LOTO kits near affected equipment
✅ Perform documented inspections annually or after incidents
✅ Encourage workers to report damaged or missing guards
✅ Include LOTO and guarding checks in your safety audits

You can also refer to NIOSH’s guarding guidelines for detailed diagrams and safety principles.

Final Thoughts

Machine guarding and lockout/tagout aren't just checkboxes on an audit—they’re safeguards that protect the people behind the processes. By reinforcing these safety measures, organizations can reduce serious injuries and maintain compliance with federal standards.

If you’re looking to assess your current procedures or improve how your team handles LOTO and machine safety, Sentry Road can help. Our training programs, hazard assessments, and audit support are built to help companies like yours stay ahead of risk.

👉 Learn more at sentryroad.com

Staying sharp in the ever-changing world of fleet safety and compliance isn’t just best practice—it’s essential. But for many safety professionals, finding time to complete continuing education or certification renewal requirements can feel like yet another item on an already packed to-do list.

Whether you’re managing DOT files, overseeing driver training, or preparing for the next audit, carving out hours for your own professional development often takes a backseat. But what if there were a way to integrate credential renewal into the work you’re already doing?

The Hidden Challenge of Certification Maintenance

Certifications like the Certified Director of Safety (CDS) or Certified Safety Supervisor (CSS) through the North American Transportation Management Institute (NATMI) are highly respected in the industry—and for good reason. They demonstrate your commitment to safety leadership, regulatory knowledge, and ongoing improvement.

But NATMI, like many credentialing bodies, requires regular recertification. That typically means earning a set number of continuing education points through approved or qualifying training.

The problem? Most safety leaders are too busy delivering training to stop and take it themselves.

Tip #1: Align Training Goals Across Roles

Instead of treating professional development and team compliance as two separate tracks, align them. Look for courses that both your drivers or employees and you can benefit from.

For example, a module on Hours of Service or Roadside Inspection prep can be assigned to the fleet while you, as the safety leader, complete it alongside them and receive credit toward certification renewal.

This approach not only saves time—it reinforces your leadership and sets a strong example for your team.

Tip #2: Choose a Platform That Works for You

Many companies invest in safety training tools to manage employee compliance—but overlook how these same tools can benefit their own credentials.

Some training platforms now offer programs that qualify for NATMI certification renewal credits—so safety managers can meet their own professional goals while training their teams.

Take a moment to review your current training solution. Does it offer:

• Transportation-focused content aligned with NATMI standards?

• Certificates of completion with contact hours documented?

• Online, on-demand access that fits into your day?

If not, a small switch in platforms could save you dozens of hours over the next renewal cycle.

Tip #3: Track Your Hours in Real Time

Waiting until your certification renewal deadline to compile training logs is a recipe for stress. Instead, make it part of your routine.

Each time you complete an eligible course, save the certificate and jot down the contact hours and point value (NATMI awards 2 points per 8 contact hours). Some platforms provide a downloadable transcript or dashboard that simplifies this process—use it.

A quick spreadsheet or folder on your desktop labeled “NATMI Renewal” can go a long way in keeping you organized and ready.

Tip #4: Leverage Your Role as a Trainer

Don’t forget—if you’re delivering internal training or developing safety content, this may count as continuing education too. NATMI awards credit not only for attending training, but also for presenting or facilitating qualifying sessions.

Check the NATMI guidelines to see which of your regular duties may qualify, and be sure to document your involvement with agendas, slide decks, or attendance logs.

Bottom Line: Make Renewal Part of the Workflow

The key to keeping your safety credentials current isn’t working longer hours—it’s working smarter. By integrating NATMI-eligible training into your team’s existing learning programs, you’ll advance your own professional standing without adding to your workload.

Related Resource

Want to see which courses qualify for NATMI renewal? Explore Eligible Training Options

In highly regulated industries, compliance is more than a box to check—it’s a key driver of safety, reputation, and operational success. Yet even well-intentioned organizations fall into the same traps, leading to OSHA citations, DOT penalties, and unnecessary risks.

The good news? Most compliance pitfalls are preventable with the right systems and training. Below, we’ll cover some of the most common compliance mistakes, why they happen, and how you can avoid them.

1. Outdated or Missing Written Programs

One of the most cited OSHA violations involves missing or outdated safety programs. For example, Hazard Communication and Bloodborne Pathogen plans are required under federal regulations, yet many companies either don’t have them or fail to review them annually.

Employers must maintain:

• A current written plan

• Updated Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

• Proper labeling and employee training

Failing to keep these updated can result in significant fines. OSHA provides detailed requirements on its Hazard Communication Standard page.

Tip: Audit your written programs at least once a year, and anytime processes or chemicals change.

2. Poor Recordkeeping Practices

Accurate records aren’t optional—they’re mandatory. OSHA requires organizations to maintain Form 300, 300A, and 301 logs for workplace injuries, while the DOT has its own requirements for driver qualification files and hours-of-service documentation.

Common errors include:

• Forgetting to record certain incidents

• Misclassifying injuries

• Incomplete or missing training records

You can learn more about OSHA recordkeeping rules here.

Tip: Use a digital system to log incidents and training. Make sure each employee signs off on completed sessions to avoid disputes during an audit.

3. PPE Provided—But Not Enforced

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is only effective if it’s worn consistently and correctly. OSHA citations often occur because employers assume providing PPE is enough—but without training and enforcement, compliance slips.

Examples of common issues include:

• Using the wrong type of gloves for chemical handling

• Not conducting respirator fit tests

• Employees removing PPE during high-risk tasks

For more details on PPE requirements, visit OSHA’s PPE resource page.

Tip: Incorporate PPE checks into your daily safety meetings and conduct quarterly audits.

4. DOT Compliance Failures

DOT compliance has its own set of challenges. From Hours-of-Service (HOS) violations to incomplete Driver Qualification Files, carriers frequently miss critical requirements.

Some of the most common issues include:

• Inaccurate or incomplete logbooks

• Missing medical certificates or expired CDL copies

• Misunderstanding personal conveyance rules

Check out the FMCSA Hours-of-Service rules for details.

Tip: Automate reminders for renewals, random drug testing, and log reviews to prevent last-minute issues.

5. Vehicle Maintenance Gaps

Poorly maintained vehicles lead to roadside violations and safety hazards. Common infractions include defective brakes, broken lights, and worn tires. The FMCSA provides guidelines on required inspections and maintenance in its Vehicle Maintenance section.

Tip: Build preventive maintenance into your compliance calendar and track all repairs digitally.

6. Overlooking State-Specific Rules

Federal standards often get the most attention, but states with OSHA-approved plans (like California and Oregon) have their own requirements—sometimes more stringent than federal rules. Details can be found on OSHA’s State Plans page.

Tip: If your company operates in multiple states, maintain a compliance matrix that includes both federal and state rules.

7. Rushing Through Training

Training that checks the box but doesn’t stick is a major risk factor. Employees might attend a session, but if the content isn’t engaging or reinforced, the result is poor retention—and preventable incidents.

OSHA emphasizes that training must be effective, not just delivered. See OSHA’s guidance on training requirements.

Tip: Use short, scenario-based modules with knowledge checks to keep engagement high.

8. Misclassifying Incidents

Another common pitfall is over- or under-reporting workplace injuries. Over-reporting can artificially inflate your recordable rates, while under-reporting is a violation in itself.

Learn more about what counts as a recordable incident here.

Tip: Train supervisors on proper classification and review logs quarterly.

9. Weak Hazard Communication

Failing to clearly communicate chemical hazards is one of OSHA’s most cited violations. Employers must ensure all hazardous chemicals are labeled and SDSs are accessible to employees.

For detailed requirements, visit OSHA’s Hazard Communication page.

Tip: Keep SDS binders updated and visible, and include hazard reminders in regular safety talks.

10. Lack of Leadership Buy-In

Even the best compliance programs fail without strong leadership support. When production is prioritized over safety or when policies aren’t enforced consistently, compliance gaps grow.

Building a culture of safety starts at the top. OSHA provides useful leadership resources here.

Tip: Involve supervisors in audits and make safety metrics part of leadership performance goals.

✅ Your Action Plan to Avoid Compliance Pitfalls

• Audit written programs annually

• Digitize recordkeeping and reminders

• Enforce PPE use daily

• Monitor DOT files and HOS compliance

• Schedule preventive maintenance checks

• Keep up with state-specific regulations

• Make training engaging and continuous

• Review incident logs regularly

• Improve hazard communication

• Secure leadership commitment

Bottom line: Most compliance failures happen because of overlooked details—not lack of effort. By building systems that prioritize consistency, you can reduce risk and stay ahead of enforcement.

How Sentry Road can help:
If your organization is looking to close compliance gaps and simplify training, Sentry Road offers practical solutions for avoiding these common pitfalls—and more. Contact us today to learn how.

Sentry Road has introduced a new English Language Proficiency Awareness Course and Assessment to help employers meet the requirements of FMCSA regulation 49 CFR §391.11(b)(2), which mandates that commercial motor vehicle drivers be able to read and speak English well enough to safely navigate and respond during roadside interactions.

With consistent enforcement returning in 2025, many safety and compliance leaders are looking for straightforward ways to prepare their teams now—before roadside inspections begin triggering out-of-service violations tied to language barriers. This new course was built to meet that growing demand, offering a streamlined way to introduce drivers to the regulation and evaluate their current readiness.

Available as a free trial, the course includes a brief awareness module paired with an interactive assessment. Together, they guide drivers through key elements of the English language requirement and offer examples of real-world inspection scenarios—such as identifying road signs or responding to common officer prompts.

The assessment uses visual cues and realistic questions to measure basic English comprehension in the context of transportation safety. Drivers are asked to interpret signs, understand spoken instructions, and make choices based on typical field situations they may encounter.

While the course is not designed to guarantee a pass during an actual inspection, it offers employers valuable insight into how well their drivers may perform under pressure—and where additional coaching or support may be needed.

For those new to the topic, Sentry Road also explored the background and practical implications of this rule in a recent blog post: FMCSA English Proficiency Requirement. That article outlines the growing emphasis on language skills as a safety and compliance priority across the industry.

The English Language Proficiency Awareness Course and Assessment is now available inside the Sentry Road platform and can be assigned to any user. Organizations not currently using Sentry Road can sign up for a free trial to access the training.

Sentry Road helps safety-focused organizations stay ahead of regulatory changes—and this course is just one of many tools designed to make compliance simpler, smarter, and more effective.

👉 Start your free trial today

Every year, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) organizes Operation Safe Driver Week to address unsafe driving behaviors among commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers and passenger vehicle drivers alike. In 2025, this high-impact initiative returns with a renewed focus on safety enforcement, education, and awareness.

This blog post outlines everything you need to know about CVSA Operation Safe Driver Week 2025—including what it is, what to expect, how to prepare, and why it matters.

What Is Operation Safe Driver Week?

Operation Safe Driver Week is an annual, targeted enforcement and education campaign spearheaded by the CVSA in partnership with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), state and local law enforcement, and industry organizations. The goal is to curb unsafe driving behaviors through high-visibility enforcement and proactive outreach.

According to the CVSA, nearly 94% of all traffic crashes are caused by driver behavior. Operation Safe Driver Week aims to address exactly that.

🗓 In 2025, Operation Safe Driver Week is scheduled for July 13–19.
🎯 This year’s focus: Speeding and distracted driving.

Why Operation Safe Driver Week Matters

While vehicle maintenance and road conditions play a role in crash statistics, driver behavior remains the leading cause of collisions—especially among commercial drivers who log hundreds of miles per day.

Unsafe behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, tailgating, failure to use seat belts, and impaired driving pose significant risks not only to the drivers themselves but also to everyone on the road.

During Operation Safe Driver Week, law enforcement officers nationwide will focus on identifying and intervening in these high-risk behaviors.

What Enforcement Looks Like

Law enforcement agencies across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will engage in the following activities during the week:

• Increased patrols on highways, rural roads, and urban centers

• Roadside inspections for both commercial and passenger vehicles

• Issuance of citations or warnings for violations such as:

  • Speeding

  • Distracted driving (e.g., mobile phone use)

  • Following too closely

  • Improper lane changes

  • Failure to obey traffic control devices

  • Seat belt violations

  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

To see a breakdown of enforcement activity from previous years, visit the CVSA Operation Safe Driver Week Results page.

Key Stats From Previous Years

Understanding the scope of this initiative is easier with some data:

• In 2023, more than 11,500 commercial motor vehicle drivers were pulled over during Operation Safe Driver Week.

• Speeding was the most-cited violation, making up more than 25% of all infractions.

• Other top violations included failure to wear a seatbelt, using a handheld device, and inattentive driving.

• Enforcement is not limited to commercial drivers—passenger vehicle drivers are often cited at even higher rates.

You can find more data in the FMCSA Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts report.

How CMV Operators and Fleets Can Prepare

Preparation for Operation Safe Driver Week starts with education and continues with policy enforcement and training. Here are some key steps to take:

1. Refresh Driver Safety Training

Make sure all drivers are up to date with their training—especially regarding:

• Speed management and space awareness

• Mobile device policies and hands-free requirements

• Hours of service (HOS) compliance

• Emergency maneuvering and hazard perception

The National Safety Council (NSC) offers resources on driver safety and training techniques.

2. Review Internal Compliance Policies

Fleet managers should audit their current policies and procedures, ensuring they align with federal and state safety regulations, including:

• FMCSA’s Part 392: Driving of Commercial Motor Vehicles 

• OSHA’s standards for workplace safety

• Internal policies on distracted driving and speed limits

If these policies are outdated or not enforced consistently, now’s the time to act.

3. Conduct Pre-Trip and Random Inspections

Ensure drivers are completing daily pre-trip inspections and that vehicle maintenance logs are up to date. Consider implementing random internal audits or check-ins leading up to Safe Driver Week.

4. Empower a Culture of Safety

Encourage open discussions around near-misses, driver fatigue, and stress management. A fleet that communicates well about risks is far better positioned to reduce incidents.

Organizations like Truckers Against Trafficking also offer important educational components that promote overall road awareness and driver responsibility.

What About Passenger Vehicles?

Operation Safe Driver Week also targets non-commercial drivers—especially those engaging in risky behavior around large trucks and buses.

Some key reminders for passenger vehicle drivers:

• Avoid cutting in front of large trucks—remember, they take longer to stop.

• Never drive in a truck’s blind spot.

• Always use turn signals and avoid aggressive lane changes.

• Do not text or use handheld devices while driving.

How Technology Plays a Role

In addition to manual enforcement and driver education, many companies are leveraging telematics and dash cams to monitor unsafe behaviors. These technologies can:

• Detect speeding and harsh braking events

• Record incidents for coaching purposes

• Promote driver accountability

• Alert management to recurring behavior trends

Vendors like Samsara, Geotab, and KeepTruckin (now Motive) provide modern fleet safety tools that can make a measurable difference during enforcement-heavy periods.

What Happens After Operation Safe Driver Week?

The value of Operation Safe Driver Week extends far beyond the seven-day campaign. For many companies, it serves as a catalyst to improve safety training, audit policies, and reduce crash risk year-round.

After the week ends, consider:

• Hosting a post-campaign debrief with your drivers

• Analyzing internal telematics data for red flags

• Implementing new training modules for repeat violations

• Continuing partnerships with safety organizations

The goal is to create sustainable, ongoing improvements, not just one-off changes in behavior.

Final Thoughts

CVSA Operation Safe Driver Week 2025 is more than just a spotlight on enforcement—it’s a call to action for everyone on the road. Whether you manage a fleet of trucks or drive a passenger vehicle, this initiative offers an opportunity to reflect, retrain, and reduce risk.

🚛 Safe drivers are made—not born. It takes education, culture, and accountability.

Ready to Prepare for CVSA Operation Safe Driver Week 2025?

Sentry Road can help your organization prepare with targeted training, compliance guidance, and scalable safety programs. From driver coaching to corrective action modules, we’re here to support your commitment to a safer road ahead.

👉 Contact us today to learn how we can help you prepare for CVSA Operation Safe Driver Week 2025—and beyond.

The trucking industry is in a full-blown retention crisis.
Drivers aren’t quitting the profession—they’re quitting their fleets.

With long-haul turnover averaging 94% annually, many carriers are trapped in a costly cycle of recruiting, onboarding, and losing drivers faster than they can be replaced. Sign-on bonuses and pay bumps have become the default response. But what if the solution isn’t just more money?

What if your most powerful retention tool is hiding in plain sight: your safety culture?

At Sentry Road, we’ve seen firsthand how treating safety as more than a compliance obligation can transform not just incident rates—but retention, morale, and the bottom line.

The Retention Problem No One Can Ignore

Replacing a single driver can cost up to $20,000 in direct recruiting, onboarding, and training expenses. That’s just the start. Add in unseated trucks, lost productivity, and operational strain, and the true cost of high turnover multiplies.

The truth is, most drivers aren’t leaving trucking. They’re switching fleets in search of something better:

• Better working conditions

• Better communication

• A stronger sense of value and belonging

And safety culture plays a bigger role than most carriers realize.

Why Safety Culture Is a Retention Strategy

When safety is treated as a strategic business priority—not just a checklist—it sends a powerful message to drivers: “We care about you, and we’re investing in your success.”

Fleets with strong safety cultures tend to share a few common traits:

• Visible leadership support: Senior leaders talk about safety—and demonstrate it through their actions.

• Driver-friendly training: Programs are accessible, practical, and respectful of a driver’s time.

• Positive coaching practices: Safety tools like telematics and in-cab cameras are used for support and coaching, not punishment.

• Recognition and team connection: Drivers are celebrated for their performance and made to feel part of a larger mission.

These aren’t just best practices—they’re the building blocks of trust. And trust is what keeps drivers from walking out the door.

A Case in Point: 65% Drop in Turnover from Safety Training Overhaul

A leading national bulk liquid hauler was already outperforming the industry, with a 29% annual driver attrition rate—far below the 90%+ sector average.

But leadership wasn’t satisfied.

They saw that inconsistent training and weak engagement during onboarding were creating risks—not just for compliance and safety, but for retention. So, they partnered with Sentry Road to treat safety training not as a regulatory requirement, but as a strategic initiative.

Here’s what they did:

• Launched a modern, mobile-first Learning Management System (LMS) designed for trucking fleets

• Created microlearning content, with short, high-impact videos drivers could complete on the road or at home

• Built in performance tracking and accountability, using data to support drivers with personalized coaching

• Embedded training into company culture, connecting it to driver well-being, career growth, and safety ownership

The results were dramatic:

• Turnover dropped from 29% to 10% among drivers who completed the training

• That’s a 65% improvement—fully trained drivers were nearly three times more likely to stay

• The total program cost less than 1% of the dollars saved by reducing churn

• The fleet also saw improvements in audit readiness, safety scores, and legal defensibility

This wasn’t an isolated case. It was the natural outcome of aligning training, culture, and leadership into one cohesive safety strategy.

Why It Worked: Drivers Stay Where They Feel Supported

When drivers feel safe, respected, and supported, they’re more likely to stay.

In the case study above, the carrier didn’t just push out new training content. They built a system that made drivers part of the solution:

• Just-in-time training gave drivers the tools to succeed on their terms

• Self-coaching dashboards replaced punitive reviews with learning opportunities

• Data-backed coaching helped safety managers target support where it was needed most

• Cultural reinforcement ensured safety wasn’t siloed—it was company-wide

It wasn’t about checking the box. It was about building a culture that made safety personal—and retention inevitable.

The Role of Technology in Scaling Safety Culture

Many fleets worry that building a strong safety culture is only achievable for mega-carriers with massive budgets. But technology changes that.

With platforms like Sentry Road, fleets of any size can:

• Standardize safety training across terminals and regions

• Deliver engaging content remotely, on any device, even for over-the-road drivers

• Track training completion and coaching history automatically

• Show airtight documentation during DOT or OSHA audits

Even small fleets can roll out a scalable safety program that boosts engagement, lowers risk, and—most importantly—keeps drivers on board.

Safety Culture Is Driver Culture

The fleets that are winning the retention battle aren’t just increasing pay. They’re increasing commitment—to safety, to professionalism, and to treating drivers as true partners.

They’ve realized that:

• A compliant fleet is good.

• A safe and stable fleet is better.

• But a safe, stable, and loyal fleet? That’s the competitive advantage today’s market demands.

And that kind of fleet culture doesn’t come from another bonus program. It comes from building a driver-first safety culture that leads to lasting results.

Ready to Turn Safety Into a Retention Advantage?

You don’t have to choose between compliance and engagement.
With the right tools and the right mindset, you can build a safety program that reduces risk and attrition.

That’s what Sentry Road delivers:

• Industry-specific content and LMS design

• Support for training transformation and compliance readiness

• Real results—like a 65% improvement in driver retention

Want to see how it can work for your fleet?
Read the full case study.

Sources

1. U.S. Department of Labor U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Office of Compensation and Working Conditions, ATA Economics Department (2017a). "Is the U.S. Labor Market for Truck Drivers Broken?" Driver Turnover Historic Database TL. American Trucking Associations.

2. CENTERLINE. "How much does truck driver turnover cost?," January 10, 2025

3. Landline Media. "Driver turnover rate for large fleets increases to 94 percent", June 07, 2018

When you think about fieldwork hazards, you might picture traffic, slips and falls, or extreme weather. But one of the most frequent — and often underestimated — hazards for field workers is contact with dogs.

Whether you’re a delivery driver, utility technician, postal worker, or field inspector, encountering dogs on the job is almost inevitable. According to the U.S. Postal Service, over 5,300 postal employees were attacked by dogs in 2022 alone. Countless more dog-related incidents happen to field workers every year, many of which go unreported.

Learning how to prevent dog bites and manage canine encounters is essential for protecting yourself, your team, and the community. Let’s dive into the best practices every field worker should know.

Understanding Canine Behavior

Before you can manage a dog encounter, it helps to understand how dogs think. Dogs are territorial by nature and may perceive a uniformed worker as a threat to their home or family. Even normally calm dogs can become reactive if startled or challenged.

Here are a few canine behavior cues to watch for:

✅ Relaxed tail and ears — generally calm
✅ Tail tucked, ears pinned back, cowering — fear or anxiety, may lash out if cornered
✅ Growling, baring teeth, stiff posture — aggression or warning
✅ Barking and lunging at a fence or gate — highly aroused, possible aggression if loose

Recognizing these warning signs gives you time to back away or take defensive measures before a bite occurs.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provides helpful guidelines on interpreting dog body language and preventing bites.

Preparing Field Workers for Dog Encounters

Your organization should develop policies and training to help workers handle dog encounters safely. Here are proven strategies:

1. Incorporate Dog Safety in Orientation
Make dog encounter training part of your onboarding process. New hires may not realize how common dog-related incidents are and how to prepare.

2. Provide Pre-Visit Awareness
Whenever possible, ask customers to secure pets before a field visit. A simple note on an appointment reminder can help.

3. Maintain Situational Awareness
Workers should look for “Beware of Dog” signs, dog toys, water bowls, or fencing that signals a dog may be present before approaching a yard or home.

4. Don’t Assume a Fence Will Hold
Many dog bites occur because a gate was left ajar or a fence was too low. Workers should never rely on barriers alone and should proceed cautiously.

5. Carry Defensive Tools
Many field workers carry dog deterrent sprays, air horns, or umbrellas (to create a barrier) as a last line of defense. These tools should be used responsibly and in line with company policy.

6. Keep a Safe Distance
If a dog is present, maintain distance and do not try to pet or engage the dog. Even friendly dogs can become defensive unexpectedly.

7. Don’t Run
Running may trigger a dog’s prey instinct, making it more likely to chase and bite. If a dog approaches, stand still with your arms at your sides and avoid eye contact.

8. If Attacked, Protect Vital Areas
If a bite seems unavoidable, use a bag, clipboard, or jacket to shield yourself. Try to protect your face, neck, and hands as much as possible.

Best Practices for Employers

Employers have a duty under the General Duty Clause of the Occupational Safety and Health Act to provide a workplace free of recognized hazards — including dog attacks. Here are steps employers should take:

✅ Include canine encounter training in your safety program
✅ Provide or approve dog deterrent tools
✅ Develop reporting procedures for near-misses and incidents
✅ Track dog-related injuries in OSHA logs if treatment beyond first aid is needed
✅ Educate customers about keeping dogs restrained during service visits

These proactive measures can lower injury rates, reduce worker stress, and protect your organization from liability.

The Role of Local Regulations

In many communities, animal control laws hold dog owners responsible for restraining their animals. However, local ordinances vary, so field workers should not assume dogs will be securely contained.

Some states, like California, also enforce “strict liability” laws, meaning a dog owner is responsible for injuries even if the dog has never bitten before. Learn more through local animal control authorities and consider incorporating local laws into your safety policies.

Real-World Dog Encounter Stories

Here are a few examples that highlight why dog safety is so important:

✅ A cable technician was bitten by a customer’s normally friendly Labrador after stepping into the yard unannounced. The customer had left the gate open.

✅ A delivery driver sustained a serious hand injury when a small terrier squeezed through a damaged fence.

✅ A meter reader was chased across a yard by a shepherd mix whose owner insisted “he doesn’t bite.”

Each case shows how even “nice” dogs can react protectively when they feel their territory is threatened.

Canine Safety and Heat Hazards

For workers in outdoor environments, there is another factor to consider: dogs exposed to hot conditions can become more irritable or stressed, increasing their risk of aggressive behavior.

If you see a dog in distress — excessive panting, drooling, confusion, or collapse — report it to animal control right away. In some jurisdictions, emergency responders are authorized to remove dogs from dangerous heat conditions to protect their welfare.

Encouraging a Culture of Respect

While dog deterrence is essential, field workers should also show respect toward dogs as living beings. Avoid teasing, yelling, or throwing objects at dogs. These behaviors can escalate aggression.

Instead, approach situations calmly, use your voice with confidence, and let dogs see you are not a threat. Building a culture of empathy and respect goes hand in hand with effective dog safety.

Final Thoughts

Dog encounters are a fact of life for many field workers, but they don’t have to end in injury. With the right training, equipment, and awareness, employees can stay safer and more confident in the field — while treating animals with respect.

Sentry Road can help your organization build strong, practical field safety programs that address canine encounters and much more. Reach out today to learn how we can support your team.