The Redwoods Group Insurance Program for YMCAs
Risk Management Alert
Topic: Vehicular and driver controls
Proper selection and control of drivers and regular preventative maintenance of vehicles are critical components in providing safe transportation
of youth, seniors, and staff members. The utilization of these tools can spell the difference between safe and problem-free vehicle operation and
difficulties arising from faulty or defective equipment or inadequately experienced, trained or motivated drivers.
Driver selection and controls (remember to document all actions)
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All persons who operate YMCA vehicles should provide verification of a driver's license that is appropriate for the driving activities they
will be required to perform. Buses and larger vans (i.e., those seating more than 14 passengers) will require a CDL (commercial driver's
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All persons who operate YMCA vehicles have a motor vehicle record (MVR) check at the time of employment and annually thereafter.
Serious offenses (DUI, DWI, reckless driving, etc.) or a pattern of moving violations should trigger suspension of driving activities.
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All persons who operate YMCA vans or buses should be given a road test in the type of vehicle they will use before driving duties
commence, and annually thereafter. The test should not only set minimum skills standards, but should also note areas of potential
improvement. It is thus a tool for both screening and future training and driver improvement.
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All persons who operate YMCA vans or buses to transport people should participate in defensive driving training that is specifically related
to the type of vehicle that they drive. Training should be implemented before duties begin and should be refreshed at least biannually, more
as needed.
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Vehicle equipment and maintenance
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All YMCA vehicles used to transport people should have the following:
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Seat belts for all passengers
Two-way radio or cell phone
Fire extinguisher
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First aid kit
Safety triangles
Spare fuses
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Convex rear mirror
Unencumbered windows
Spare tire / jack
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All YMCA vehicles used to transport people should receive daily inspections by the driver to ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy and fit for
service. A written inspection format should be used to ensure completion, provide a means of requesting repairs, and to document the
activity.
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All YMCA vehicles should receive regular preventative maintenance based on dual triggers of miles driven and time (e.g., 3,000 miles or 3
months). This maintenance should be at least as stringent as manufacturersâ recommendations and should include lubrication, checks
and/or replacement of all fluids, plus safety inspections (with repair as required) of the steering, suspension, and braking systems,
windshield washers and wipers, and tires.
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All vehicles used to transport people should receive documented safety inspections, preferably by a qualified outside facility, at least
annually.
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Please call us at 800-463-8546 if you would like to discuss any Risk Management safety tips, or visit our web site at www.redwoodsgroup.com to learn more about YMCA risk management related issues. We would appreciate any feedback you might have to offer concerning this article. Please click here to send your feedback.
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