719 Fleet Safety Management

Glossary

This glossary includes terms associated with OSHA's Recommended Practices for Safety and Health Programs.

A

Accident Event Recorder (AER). A device installed in commercial vehicles that captures data, such as video and vehicle parameters, during events like collisions or harsh braking. It is used for safety analysis and driver behavior improvement.
Accident Root Cause Analysis (ARCA). A process used to identify the underlying causes of vehicle crashes or near misses in fleet operations. This analysis helps in developing corrective actions to prevent future incidents.
Active GPS Tracking Device. A real-time tracking device used in fleet management to monitor the location, speed, and status of vehicles, providing continuous data that can be accessed remotely by fleet managers.
Active Safety Systems. Technology systems in vehicles that actively help prevent accidents by detecting hazards and automatically taking action, such as adaptive cruise control or automatic emergency braking.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). A vehicle safety feature that automatically adjusts a vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing the likelihood of rear-end collisions and improving road safety.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). A suite of technologies in vehicles designed to improve driver safety by assisting with steering, braking, and other driving functions, helping to prevent accidents and reduce human error.
Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS). A technology that detects an impending collision and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or mitigate the severity of a crash, enhancing fleet safety and crash prevention.
Air Brake System. A type of brake system commonly used in large commercial vehicles that uses compressed air to apply pressure to the brake pads, essential for the safe operation of heavy trucks and buses.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). A safety system in vehicles that prevents the wheels from locking during braking, maintaining vehicle control. This technology is crucial in fleet safety, reducing accident risk.
Asset Tracking. The process of monitoring physical assets, such as vehicles or equipment, using GPS or RFID technology, allowing businesses to track the location, condition, and usage of their assets in real time.
Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE). The use of cameras and sensors to monitor and enforce speed limits, especially in high-risk zones like work zones and school areas, improving compliance and reducing speeding-related accidents.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB). A safety feature that detects an imminent collision and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or reduce the severity of the crash, increasingly required in fleet vehicles.
Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL). A tracking technology used in fleet management that provides real-time data on the location of vehicles. It helps improve safety, route efficiency, and accountability.

B

Backup Camera. A camera mounted on the rear of a vehicle to help drivers see behind them when reversing, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by blind spots, especially important for larger fleet vehicles.
Behavior-Based Safety (BBS). A proactive approach to fleet safety that focuses on identifying, observing, and changing risky driver behaviors to prevent accidents and enhance overall safety performance.
Beidou. A global navigation satellite system (GNSS) developed by China, similar to GPS, used in fleet management for location tracking and navigation, especially in Asia.
Blind Spot Detection (BSD). A system that alerts drivers to vehicles or objects in their blind spots, helping to prevent accidents during lane changes, especially in large fleet vehicles with limited visibility.
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM). A vehicle safety system that detects and alerts drivers to the presence of other vehicles in their blind spots, helping prevent lane change collisions.
Bluetooth. A wireless communication technology used in fleet vehicles for short-range data transmission, often to connect mobile devices, driver terminals, or in-vehicle systems for telematics and diagnostics.
Business Mileage Claim. A reimbursement request submitted by drivers for mileage driven in personal vehicles for business purposes, often tracked using fleet management software for accuracy.
Brake Testing. A routine safety procedure in fleet management to ensure that vehicle brakes are functioning correctly, critical for maintaining safe vehicle operation and preventing accidents on the road.
Brake-Check Inspection. A procedure conducted by fleet managers or drivers to ensure that a vehicle's braking system is functioning properly, critical for compliance with DOT safety regulations.
Brake Wear Monitoring System. A system that tracks the condition of a vehicle's brakes and alerts the driver or fleet manager when maintenance is required, improving safety by preventing brake failure.
Business Integration. The process of incorporating fleet management systems with other business processes, such as accounting, logistics, or customer relationship management (CRM), to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

C

Carbon Monoxide (CO) Exposure. A safety hazard in enclosed vehicles or poorly ventilated environments where CO can accumulate, posing serious risks to driver health. OSHA provides guidelines for preventing CO exposure in fleet operations.
Cargo Weight Distribution. The method of placing cargo in a vehicle to ensure proper balance and stability, preventing rollovers and improving control, critical for compliance with DOT load safety standards.
Cell Phone Policy for Drivers. A company-wide policy that restricts the use of mobile phones while driving, often prohibiting texting or handheld phone use, to reduce distracted driving and improve road safety.
Collision Avoidance System (CAS). A vehicle safety technology that uses sensors and cameras to detect potential collisions and provide warnings to the driver or automatically take action, such as braking or steering, to avoid a crash.
Collision Mitigation System (CMS). A technology that detects an impending collision and automatically takes action to mitigate the impact, such as applying brakes or tightening seat belts, improving vehicle safety in fleet operations.
Commercial Driver's License (CDL). A license required by the DOT for individuals operating commercial motor vehicles, ensuring they meet specific knowledge and skill criteria.
Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV). Defined by the DOT, a CMV is any vehicle used for business purposes that meets specific size, weight, or passenger capacity thresholds, requiring drivers to hold a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
Comprehensive Safety Analysis (CSA) Score. A metric used by the FMCSA to evaluate the safety performance of commercial fleets, taking into account factors like inspections, accidents, and violations. A poor CSA score can result in penalties or intervention.
Connected Car. A vehicle equipped with internet access and communication technologies that allow it to share data with other vehicles, infrastructure, or fleet management systems, improving operational efficiency and safety.
Crash Data Recorder (CDR). A device installed in commercial vehicles that records vehicle data before, during, and after a crash to improve safety investigations.
Crosswalk Awareness Training. Training provided to fleet drivers to enhance their awareness of pedestrian crosswalks, ensuring they take appropriate precautions to prevent accidents in areas with high pedestrian traffic.
Crosswind Assist. A vehicle feature that detects strong crosswinds and helps stabilize the vehicle by adjusting braking on individual wheels, enhancing control for fleet vehicles on highways.

D

Data Logging. The process of collecting and storing vehicle and driver data (such as speed, engine performance, and braking) over time to analyze fleet performance and improve safety practices.
Defensive Driving. A set of driving practices designed to anticipate potential hazards and reduce the risk of accidents, emphasized by OSHA and NIOSH as a critical skill for fleet drivers.
Defensive Driving Course. A specialized driver education program focused on teaching fleet drivers to anticipate potential hazards and take proactive measures to avoid accidents, widely recommended in fleet safety programs.
Defensive Driver Training. A type of driver education focused on teaching drivers to anticipate and respond to road hazards proactively, minimizing accident risks and enhancing fleet safety. NIOSH and OSHA promote such training for fleet safety programs.
Department of Transportation (DOT). A federal government agency responsible for overseeing and regulating the nation's transportation systems, including highways, air travel, railways, and public transit, to ensure safety, efficiency, and accessibility.
Digital Tachograph. A digital device installed in commercial vehicles to record driving time, speed, and distance, ensuring compliance with regulations on driving hours and rest periods.
Distracted Driving. Any activity that diverts attention from driving, including texting, eating, or using in-vehicle technologies. OSHA, DOT, and NIOSH emphasize policies to mitigate distracted driving for fleet safety.
Distracted Driving Prevention Policy. A formal set of rules enforced by companies to limit the use of mobile phones or other distractions while driving, in compliance with OSHA and DOT recommendations for fleet safety.
Driver Accountability Program. A fleet management initiative designed to hold drivers accountable for unsafe behaviors, such as speeding or distracted driving, by using telematics data and corrective actions to improve safety.
Driver Risk Assessment. A process used by fleet managers to evaluate the safety risk posed by individual drivers, based on factors like driving history, behavior monitoring, and compliance with safety regulations.
Driver Behavior Monitoring. A fleet management practice using telematics and in-vehicle cameras to track driving habits such as speeding, harsh braking, and idling, aimed at improving safety and reducing risks.
Driver Coaching. A fleet management strategy where drivers receive real-time or post-trip feedback on their driving behaviors to correct unsafe practices and promote safer driving habits.
Driver Distraction Monitoring. A system that uses in-cab cameras and sensors to detect signs of driver distraction, such as looking away from the road, and providing real-time alerts to improve safety.
Driver Event Reporting. A system allowing drivers to report unsafe road conditions, incidents, or near-misses, helping fleet managers address potential hazards and improve overall fleet safety.
Driver Fatigue. A serious safety risk caused by long driving hours or insufficient rest. Both DOT and NIOSH provide guidelines to address fatigue through regulations like Hours of Service (HOS) limits.
Driver Fitness for Duty. The evaluation of a driver's physical and mental condition before starting a shift to ensure they are capable of safely operating a vehicle, often including drug tests, fatigue checks, and health screenings.
Driver Qualification File (DQF). A record-keeping requirement by the DOT, ensuring that all commercial drivers meet specific legal standards, including medical exams, driving records, and certifications.
Driver Safety Orientation. An introductory training provided to new fleet drivers, covering key safety policies, vehicle operation protocols, and emergency procedures to reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Driver Safety Scorecard. A tool used by fleet managers to evaluate and track a driver's safety performance, using metrics like speeding, braking, and compliance with safety regulations, to encourage safer driving practices.
Driver Scorecard. A performance evaluation tool that scores drivers based on specific safety metrics, such as speeding, harsh braking, and fuel efficiency, used by fleet managers to encourage safe driving behaviors.

Driver Terminal.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Policy. A zero-tolerance policy implemented by fleet operators that prohibits drivers from operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, in line with DOT and OSHA safety standards.
Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. A database maintained by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to track commercial drivers who have violated DOT drug and alcohol testing regulations, ensuring fleet safety compliance.
Dynamic Message Signs (DMS). Electronic signs placed along roadways to convey real-time information to drivers about traffic conditions, road hazards, or safety alerts, improving road safety for fleet drivers.

E

Eco-Driving. A driving style that focuses on reducing fuel consumption and emissions by encouraging efficient driving behaviors, which also enhances safety by promoting smoother, less aggressive driving.
Electric Vehicle (EV). A vehicle powered by electric motors using energy stored in rechargeable batteries, increasingly used in fleet management for environmental and cost-saving benefits.
Electronic Braking Performance Monitoring System (EBPMS). A system used in heavy vehicles to monitor and assess the performance of braking systems, ensuring they meet safety standards and alerting drivers or fleet managers to potential issues.
Electronic Control Module (ECM). A computer system in vehicles that monitors and controls key engine functions, providing diagnostic data used in fleet management to ensure optimal performance and safety compliance.
Electronic Logging Device (ELD). A digital tool mandated by the DOT to record drivers' hours of service (HOS), ensuring compliance with legal driving time limits.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC). A computerized technology that improves vehicle stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction, essential in preventing rollovers and skidding, particularly in commercial fleets.
Emergency Kit. A set of tools and supplies stored in fleet vehicles to assist drivers in handling emergencies, such as breakdowns or accidents. Kits typically include first aid supplies, flares, and basic tools, ensuring driver preparedness.
Emergency Preparedness Plan. A plan developed by fleet managers to handle potential emergencies such as vehicle breakdowns, accidents, or natural disasters, ensuring driver and vehicle safety in crisis situations.
Emergency Vehicle Operation Training. A specialized training program for drivers who operate emergency response vehicles, covering techniques for safely navigating through traffic, high-speed driving, and collision avoidance.
Employer Vehicle Safety Program. A comprehensive program implemented by organizations to manage the safe operation of their fleets, often including driver training, vehicle maintenance, and incident reporting. OSHA and NIOSH promote these programs for reducing risks.
Environmental Control Systems. Systems used in fleet vehicles to manage internal climate conditions, including heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), important for driver comfort and reducing fatigue.
Event Data Recorder (EDR). A device that records technical vehicle data and driver actions during crashes or other safety-critical events, used in fleet safety analysis and accident investigation.

F

Fatigue Detection System. A technology that monitors driver behavior, such as eye movements or steering patterns, to detect signs of fatigue and alert the driver or fleet manager to prevent accidents.
Fatigue Management Program. A structured plan to address driver fatigue through education, scheduling, and technology, helping fleets comply with Hours of Service regulations and reducing accidents caused by tired drivers.
Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS). A systematic approach used in fleet management to assess and mitigate the risks associated with driver fatigue, often involving scheduling strategies, monitoring tools, and fatigue awareness training.
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). A division of the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for overseeing federal highway safety programs, including those affecting commercial vehicle fleets.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). A U.S. Department of Transportation agency that regulates the safety of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs), including setting standards for fleet safety, driver qualifications, and vehicle maintenance.
Field Service Management (FSM). The process of managing a company's field operations, including dispatching workers, scheduling tasks, and tracking fleet vehicles in real time to ensure efficient service delivery.
Fleet Accident Rate. A metric used to measure the number of accidents per million miles driven by a fleet, used by organizations to assess safety performance and develop improvement strategies.
Fleet Benchmarking. The practice of comparing a fleet's performance metrics, such as accident rates or maintenance costs, against industry standards or peer companies to identify areas for improvement in safety and efficiency.
Fleet Fuel Management. A system or process designed to monitor and optimize fuel consumption in fleet vehicles, often through telematics and analytics, helping fleets reduce costs and improve efficiency while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations.
Fleet Management System. A software platform that helps businesses manage and optimize the use of their vehicle fleets, including tracking vehicles, monitoring driver behavior, scheduling maintenance, and reducing operational costs.
Fleet Operating Costs. The total expenses associated with running a vehicle fleet, including fuel, maintenance, insurance, labor, and depreciation, all of which are monitored and managed to improve profitability.
Fleet Safety Program. A set of management policies designed to reduce risks, enhance safety, and ensure regulatory compliance in organizations with vehicle fleets. OSHA and NIOSH often reference these programs as critical for worker safety.
Fleet Telematics System. A digital system that collects and transmits real-time data on vehicle location, driver behavior, fuel consumption, and vehicle performance, used by fleet managers to improve safety, efficiency, and compliance.
Fleet Tracking. The use of GPS technology to monitor the real-time location, speed, and status of vehicles in a fleet, improving efficiency and safety by providing visibility into fleet operations.
Forward Visibility. The clear, unobstructed view a driver has of the road ahead, crucial for anticipating hazards and preventing accidents. Vehicle design and proper windshield maintenance are critical to ensuring forward visibility.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW). A safety system that alerts drivers of an impending collision with a vehicle ahead, allowing them to take corrective action and avoid accidents, commonly used in fleet vehicles.
Forward-Facing Camera. A camera installed at the front of a vehicle that records the driver's view of the road, often used in fleet vehicles to document accidents and monitor driver behavior for safety purposes.
Fuel Management System. A system used by fleet managers to monitor and control fuel consumption, reduce fuel waste, and improve operational efficiency, helping ensure both cost savings and environmental compliance.

G

Geofencing. A technology that creates a virtual boundary around a specific geographic area, triggering alerts or actions when a fleet vehicle enters or leaves the area, useful for tracking, safety, and route adherence.
Geographic Information System (GIS). A system that captures, stores, and analyzes geographical data, often used in fleet management to optimize routes, monitor vehicle locations, and plan logistics based on geographic conditions.
Global Positioning System (GPS). A satellite-based navigation system used in fleet management for real-time vehicle tracking, route optimization, and improving driver safety by monitoring driving patterns.
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). The total weight of a vehicle, including its cargo, passengers, and fuel, which must not exceed the manufacturer's specified limit to ensure safe operation and regulatory compliance.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The maximum permissible weight of a vehicle when fully loaded, as specified by the manufacturer. Fleet managers must ensure vehicles do not exceed the GVWR to comply with DOT regulations and maintain safety.

H

Hands-Free Law Compliance. Regulations that mandate the use of hands-free devices for mobile phone use while driving. Fleet managers must ensure compliance to avoid penalties and promote safer driving environments.
Hazardous Materials (HazMat). Substances that pose risks to health, safety, or the environment. DOT and OSHA have strict regulations on transporting HazMat materials, including driver training and vehicle safety standards.
Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV). A large vehicle, such as a truck, used to transport goods, typically weighing over 3.5 tons. Fleet management systems monitor HGVs for compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
High-Risk Driver Program. A fleet management initiative aimed at identifying drivers with a history of unsafe driving behaviors, providing targeted training, and implementing corrective actions to reduce their risk of accidents.
Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP). A federal initiative to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on highways through the implementation of safety measures and best practices in fleet management and roadway design.
Hours of Service (HOS). DOT regulations that limit the number of hours a commercial driver can operate a vehicle to reduce fatigue and enhance safety. These rules are part of fleet management protocols to prevent crashes.
Hydroplaning Prevention. A set of practices, such as reducing speed during rain and maintaining proper tire tread, designed to prevent hydroplaning, a condition where tires lose contact with the road due to water, increasing the risk of accidents.

I

Incident Investigation. The process of analyzing vehicle accidents or near-misses to identify causes and implement corrective actions, as recommended by OSHA to prevent future incidents and enhance fleet safety.
Incident Rate. A measure used in fleet safety management that tracks the number of accidents or safety-related incidents relative to miles driven or the number of vehicles in the fleet, used to assess safety performance.
Incident Reporting System. A system used in fleet management to document and report vehicular accidents or near-misses. These systems help companies comply with OSHA requirements and improve overall fleet safety.
Incident Review Committee. A group within a fleet organization tasked with reviewing vehicle accidents and near misses to determine causes and recommend actions to prevent future incidents, improving fleet safety performance.
Information Tracing. The process of tracking and recording data related to vehicle movements, driver activities, and asset locations in a fleet, often used for compliance, reporting, and improving operational transparency.
Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA). A technology that assists drivers in adhering to speed limits by providing warnings or automatically limiting vehicle speed, increasingly used in commercial fleets to improve safety.
Intersection Safety Awareness. Training that emphasizes the importance of caution and adherence to traffic signals when approaching intersections, where a significant number of vehicle collisions occur, especially in urban areas.
ISO 27001. An international standard for managing information security, relevant to fleet management systems that handle sensitive data such as vehicle tracking, driver information, and operational details.

J

Jackknifing. A dangerous situation where the trailer of a truck swings out to form an angle with the tractor, often due to sudden braking or slippery conditions. Preventative measures include proper braking techniques and speed control.
Journey Management Plan. A strategy used to ensure the safety of drivers, particularly in high-risk or long-distance driving. It includes planning routes, rest breaks, and vehicle inspections to align with safety guidelines from NIOSH and OSHA.

K

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Metrics used to evaluate the effectiveness of fleet safety programs and ensure compliance with OSHA and DOT standards, such as accident rates or vehicle inspection completion percentages.

L

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA). A safety system that actively helps drivers stay within their lane by gently steering the vehicle back if it starts to drift without a turn signal, enhancing safety on long drives or in fleet operations.
Lane Departure Warning (LDW). A vehicle safety feature that alerts drivers when they unintentionally drift out of their lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by distracted or drowsy driving.
Latitude. A geographic coordinate that specifies the north-south position of a vehicle or asset on the Earth's surface, used in conjunction with longitude in GPS-based fleet tracking systems.
Load Monitoring System. A technology used to track and monitor the weight and balance of cargo in real time to ensure compliance with regulations and prevent overloading, which can lead to accidents or vehicle damage.
Load Securement. The process of properly securing cargo to prevent shifting or falling during transit, which is a critical safety consideration for fleets transporting goods. DOT regulations require specific load securement standards.
Longitude. A geographic coordinate that specifies the east-west position of a vehicle or asset on the Earth's surface, used alongside latitude for precise GPS tracking in fleet management.

M

Maintenance of Vehicle (MOV). The regular upkeep of fleet vehicles to ensure they remain in safe operating condition, crucial for complying with OSHA and DOT regulations on fleet safety.
Mileage Workforce Management. A system that tracks the distance driven by employees during work-related tasks, ensuring accurate mileage reporting for business claims, payroll, and compliance purposes.
Mobile Fleet Maintenance. A service where maintenance and repairs are performed at the location of the fleet vehicle, ensuring vehicles remain operational and reducing downtime, while also helping to prevent mechanical failures on the road.
Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP). A DOT program aimed at reducing crashes and injuries by enforcing commercial vehicle safety standards through inspections and educational efforts.
Motor Vehicle Record (MVR). A driver's official driving history, used by fleet managers to ensure that drivers meet company and regulatory safety standards, as mandated by DOT and FMCSA guidelines.

N

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). A U.S. federal agency focused on researching and providing recommendations to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses, including fleet management and driver safety.
Near-Miss Reporting. A system that encourages drivers to report incidents that could have led to an accident but didn't, allowing fleet managers to analyze potential risks and implement preventative measures.
Night Driving Safety. Practices and technologies aimed at improving driver visibility and reducing risks during nighttime operations, including improved headlights, reflective markings, and driver training to prevent accidents.
No-Idle Policy. A company-wide rule aimed at reducing vehicle idling to save fuel and lower emissions. This policy also encourages safer fleet operations by reducing engine wear and ensuring vehicles are not left running unattended.
No-Zone Awareness. A driver safety concept referring to the areas around large trucks where visibility is limited, requiring both fleet drivers and general motorists to be mindful of blind spots to avoid collisions.

O

Occupational Driving Risk Assessment. A process used by fleet managers to evaluate the risks associated with driving for work, considering factors such as road conditions, driver behavior, and vehicle safety, aligned with NIOSH and OSHA guidelines.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). A federal agency responsible for enforcing workplace safety standards, including those related to transportation and fleet management. OSHA provides guidelines to reduce hazards for drivers.
Onboard Diagnostics (OBD). A system that monitors a vehicle's engine and other critical systems for malfunctions, providing fleet managers with real-time data to ensure vehicles operate safely.
Overloading Prevention. Ensuring that fleet vehicles do not carry more weight than the manufacturer's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), as overloading increases the risk of accidents, brake failures, and vehicle instability.

P

Parking Assistance System. A technology that helps drivers park safely by using sensors to detect obstacles and guide the vehicle into a parking spot, useful in tight spaces and especially important for large fleet vehicles.
Passive GPS Tracking Device. A GPS tracking device that stores location data internally and requires manual retrieval, often used when real-time tracking is not necessary.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Drivers. Safety gear such as high-visibility vests, hard hats, and gloves worn by drivers when outside their vehicle, particularly at loading docks or worksites, to reduce the risk of injury.
Post-Trip Inspection. A thorough check conducted by fleet drivers at the end of a trip to identify any vehicle defects or damage, ensuring that issues are addressed before the next trip, helping maintain safety and compliance with DOT regulations.
Predictive Analytics. A technology used in fleet management that analyzes data from telematics and vehicle sensors to predict potential safety issues or mechanical failures, allowing proactive interventions to prevent accidents.
Pre-trip Inspection. A mandatory check performed by drivers before starting a trip to ensure the vehicle is in safe working condition, required by DOT regulations to prevent accidents and mechanical failures.
Preventive Maintenance (PM). A proactive approach in fleet management that involves regular vehicle inspections and maintenance to prevent breakdowns and ensure safe operation. PM is essential for compliance with OSHA and DOT regulations.

Q

Qualified Driver. A driver who meets the qualifications outlined by the DOT, including having a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL), medical certification, and adherence to safety standards.
Qualified Person. An individual who possesses a recognized degree, certification, or extensive knowledge, training, and experience, enabling them to perform specific tasks safely and effectively, as defined by OSHA standards.

R

Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA). A safety feature that alerts drivers to traffic approaching from the sides when reversing, reducing the risk of collisions in parking lots or other confined spaces.
Rear-end Collision Avoidance. Technologies and practices aimed at preventing rear-end accidents, such as automatic emergency braking systems, which are increasingly integrated into commercial fleet vehicles.
Remote Vehicle Disabling. A fleet management tool that allows managers to remotely disable a vehicle's engine in the event of theft or unauthorized use, enhancing fleet security and preventing potential incidents.
Retread Tire Safety. The practice of using retreaded tires in commercial fleets, which are cost-effective but must be inspected frequently to ensure they meet safety standards and do not contribute to tire failure.
Risk Management. The identification, assessment, and prioritization of risks in fleet operations, followed by the application of resources to minimize, control, or eliminate those risks. OSHA and NIOSH recommend risk management strategies for driver safety.
Roadside Assistance Program. A service offered by fleet management companies to provide support for vehicles that experience mechanical failures or accidents, ensuring that drivers receive timely help to maintain safety on the road.
Roadside Inspection. An inspection of commercial vehicles conducted by authorized personnel to ensure compliance with safety regulations, including vehicle condition and driver credentials, as part of DOT enforcement.
Roll Stability Control (RSC). A vehicle safety feature that helps prevent rollovers by automatically reducing engine power and applying brakes if sensors detect an imminent rollover situation, commonly installed in commercial vehicles.
Route Optimization. The process of determining the most efficient routes for fleet vehicles based on factors like traffic, distance, and delivery schedules, helping reduce fuel consumption and improve service times.
Route Optimization Software. Software used to determine the most efficient driving routes for fleet vehicles, reducing fuel consumption, travel time, and risk exposure, while enhancing overall safety and efficiency.

S

Safe Driving Distance. The recommended space between a vehicle and the one in front, allowing sufficient time to react in case of sudden stops. Fleet safety programs often train drivers on maintaining safe driving distances to avoid collisions.
Safe Lane Changing. A driving practice that involves using turn signals, checking mirrors, and scanning blind spots to safely move between lanes. Fleet safety programs emphasize this practice to prevent sideswipe collisions.
Safety Culture. The shared values, beliefs, and practices within an organization that prioritize safety in all aspects of fleet operations, including driver behavior, vehicle maintenance, and management practices.
Seat Belt Usage Policy. A company-wide policy that mandates the use of seat belts by all drivers and passengers in fleet vehicles, enforced to comply with OSHA recommendations and improve fleet safety outcomes.
Seasonal Driving Safety. Guidelines and training provided to fleet drivers to prepare for different seasonal conditions, such as snow, rain, or fog, which may increase the risk of accidents and require specific driving adjustments.
Smart Tachograph. An advanced version of the traditional tachograph that automatically records vehicle activity and transmits the data wirelessly to authorities, improving enforcement of driving time regulations.
Speed Limiters. Devices installed in vehicles to automatically restrict maximum speeds, helping fleets comply with speed regulations and reduce the risk of high-speed accidents.
Speeding Time. The amount of time a vehicle is driven above the posted speed limit, often monitored by fleet management systems to ensure driver safety and compliance with traffic laws.
Spill Response Plan. A set of procedures followed when hazardous materials are accidentally spilled during transport, ensuring the safety of drivers and the public while meeting OSHA and DOT regulations for clean-up and reporting.
Suspension System Maintenance. Regular inspection and servicing of a vehicle's suspension system to ensure proper handling, stability, and load-bearing capacity, critical for safety in fleet operations.
Speed Governor. A device used in commercial vehicles to limit the maximum speed, helping fleets comply with speed regulations and reduce the risk of high-speed accidents.

T

Tachograph. A device installed in commercial vehicles to record driving time, rest periods, and speed, ensuring compliance with regulations regarding driver hours and safety standards.
Tachograph Manager. A software or individual responsible for analyzing data from tachographs to ensure that drivers are complying with legal driving and rest times, and for generating reports for regulatory bodies.
Telematics. A technology used in fleet management to monitor vehicle movements, driving behaviors, and vehicle diagnostics. This data is crucial for improving safety and reducing risks in compliance with DOT guidelines.
Telematics Dashboard. A user interface used by fleet managers to monitor real-time data from vehicles, including speed, location, fuel consumption, and driver behavior, allowing proactive management of fleet safety and performance.
Trace and Track. The process of continuously monitoring the location and movement of vehicles or assets in a fleet, ensuring visibility for both security and operational efficiency.
Traffic Incident Management (TIM). A set of coordinated procedures and technologies used to manage traffic flow during and after incidents, ensuring the safety of drivers and responders, often integrated into fleet safety protocols.

U

Unsafe Driving Behavior. Actions such as speeding, distracted driving, or failure to follow DOT regulations, which pose risks to fleet safety and may result in violations or penalties.

V

Vehicle Condition Report (VCR). A document completed by drivers or fleet managers to record the condition of a vehicle at the start and end of each trip, ensuring any defects are addressed to comply with DOT regulations.
Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR). A daily report completed by drivers or fleet managers to ensure vehicles are in safe working condition before operation, helping meet DOT and OSHA safety standards.
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communication. An emerging technology that enables vehicles to communicate with each other, road infrastructure, and pedestrians, enhancing fleet safety by reducing collisions and improving traffic management.
Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) Communication. A technology that enables vehicles to communicate with road infrastructure (such as traffic lights and signs), improving fleet safety by providing real-time information about road conditions and traffic signals.
Vehicle Tracing. The act of identifying the location and movement history of a vehicle in a fleet, typically through GPS or telematics, used to ensure safety, compliance, and efficient operation.

W

Working Time Registration. The process of recording the hours worked by drivers, including driving time, rest breaks, and on-duty time, to ensure compliance with labor laws and fleet safety regulations.
Work Zone Safety. Practices and policies aimed at protecting drivers and workers in road construction zones. OSHA and DOT highlight work zone safety as a critical aspect of fleet management, particularly for highway transport.

X

X-Ray Inspection Systems. Technology used by the DOT and other agencies to inspect cargo for safety compliance and detect hidden contraband during transportation.

Y

Yield to Pedestrians. A safety requirement and practice for drivers to stop or slow down to allow pedestrians to cross safely, as mandated by traffic laws and DOT guidelines.

Z

Zero Tolerance Policy. A strict policy enforced by many organizations and required under OSHA and DOT regulations for violations such as substance abuse or unsafe driving practices to ensure fleet safety.