Best Practices for Maintaining Fleet Security
It’s no secret that safety is a top priority for any fleet manager. But the key lies in determining which types of safety are needed, and maintaining those high levels of security on a consistent basis. There is a lot to consider, but we have some ideas on best practices that should be at the core of every fleet management operation.
Cyber Security is a Must
Whether a fleet is digitally connected or just relies on tracking systems for efficiency and data, technology is a part of nearly every company’s fleet. This is a great way to stay on top of current trends, but it also comes with an added need for security.
This means that, before anyone moves forward with new technology, they must do their research and find out which equipment or software will suit their needs. It’s important to take time to do this, because the last thing anyone wants is to be locked into a contract for software services that don’t benefit their vehicles or employees.
Once new technology is implemented, it’s also imperative to train every employee on the correct way to utilize the technology. That will not only streamline daily processes, but it also ensures that a security gaffe is less likely to happen if all employees are aware of the safety measures in place.
Place a Priority on Driver Safety
No fleet will be efficient without high-quality operators in place. The drivers in each fleet are essential to success. That means that their safety and security should be high on the list of priorities for any company – and that requires both monitoring and maintenance.
Good fleet managers understand the value of making sure drivers are not going beyond their physical and mental capabilities in order to get a job done. This means that vehicles are tracked and monitored to ensure that drivers are not logging too many hours in a row. It also means that stringent requirements are put into place that make sure each driver has everything they need to successfully complete a job.
Maintenance is another important part of driver safety. A safe driver in an unsafe vehicle will still not yield driver security. Maintaining each fleet on a regular and routine basis is a crucial part of creating higher safety measures. This means you don’t wait until something is wrong with a vehicle – you catch the problem before it compromises safety.
Keep Everyone in the Loop
All the safety and security procedures in the world won’t be useful if employees are unaware of the requirements. Communication and training are vital parts of any type of security plan. Employees must have the opportunity to learn about new or updated security policies, and the chance to ask questions before they begin acting on these policies. And employees must be certified on safety items so everyone on the team knows they are up to date with the most relevant information.
Likewise, it’s important to make sure that all technology-based safety or communication methods are updated as needed. This means regular maintenance as well as ensuring that all software has the latest update available, and that all hardware is functioning as it should. Scheduling regular checks for these updates is a good way to stay ahead of problems before they become too large to solve.
At Dickinson, we will never compromise safety, period. Safety is always our first priority, and we pride ourselves on going the extra mile to provide the safest working conditions and service methods in the industry.
More on Dickinson Fleet Services
Headquartered in Indianapolis, Dickinson Fleet Services (DFS) has grown to become one of the largest independent fleet maintenance and management companies in the country. DFS is the leading provider of on-site mobile maintenance and repair services nationwide, offering mobile on-site maintenance and repair services for light, medium and heavy-duty trucks and trailers with over 500 mobile units operating nationwide. DFS services fleet customers with 22 maintenance facilities each offering select services from accident repair, paint, refurbishment and dedicated technician services, combined with an in-house CARES CALL center providing 24/7 repair assistance. DFS has made significant investments in training and technology, including WebWrench® (maintenance tracking and scheduling through proprietary technology) and TRAIT® (real-time reporting and dynamic preventative maintenance inspections processed through a proprietary field service application) and is the only fleet services company in the nation to provide both fleet maintenance and management to its customers nationwide. www.dickinsonfleet.com
