As the pandemic rages on, no industry is spared from its consequences. Even those that can rely on remote work for a large portion of their operations are feeling the impact. Those with more hands-on or in-person work, like the trucking industry, have been hit especially hard.
One aspect of dealing with work in the pandemic is hiring new employees. With the trucking industry slowly bouncing back, most companies are ready to onboard new truck drivers. Here are a few ways you can ensure this process is done safely and efficiently.
Digital Applications
Some companies still rely on paper applications, but adopting an electronic version is one easy way to make the process safer and more accessible. Just make sure the application software you use is simple to fill out and DOT compliant.
This allows you to screen applicants, background check and all, quickly and efficiently from the safety of your office or home computer. You can also incorporate an application that syncs with a compliance management system to really streamline the process.
Interviews and Onboarding
Social distancing restrictions make it difficult to conduct an in-person interview. If you have a large enough office or room for this, then you might be alright, but many companies are holding their interviews offsite these days.
A safer interview can start with a phone call, followed up by a formal video interview. Apps like Skype or even Facebook Messenger can help make this possible. While it might seem less personal, you can still get an excellent feel for your candidates this way and make sure they’re not only qualified but a good fit for your company.
You can use the same apps for video training conferences or post pre-recorded training videos online to help with onboarding. This gives new hires the information they need, keeping them safe in regular operation terms without the need for a Sacramento personal injury lawyer, while ensuring your company follows state’s guidelines.
Sticking with the Guidelines
When you do need to bring a driver onsite, try to keep the individuals in a given space to a minimum. Make sure you’re following the six-foot social distancing rules and that everyone is wearing a face covering at all times.
You also want to make sure that masks are worn properly. Below the nose or down under the chin defeats the purpose and could land you in hot water based on your state’s guidelines. If your employees are less-than-enthused, post an information video that goes over mask wearing and state that it is now a requirement.
Compliance Management
Once DOT compliance and onboarding requirements are met, you can keep up with safety through more electronic means in the form of compliance management. Various systems allow you update a driver’s CDL, medical card, and more within a digital employee file.
Relying on digital compliance management also helps you with current FMCSA operation, which now favor offsite audits. Best of all, you can access this critical information on your phone anytime you need it. While it might take a little work to set up, it will save you many on printer use and supplies.
