Safety Manager

Who is the Safety Manager in Trucking

A safety manager in a trucking company is responsible for ensuring that all operations are in compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Having focus on areas like Hours of Service (HOS), Electronic Logging Device (ELD) and driver qualification.
They develop and implement safety programs to minimize safety risks for drivers, the public and cargo. Additionally, the safety manager oversees the training and education of drivers to maintain high safety standards and prevent violations. Handling all the necessary paperwork in regard to drivers, trucks and cargo. Insurance, making sure that trucks and equipment are properly registered, checking drivers MVR, clearinghouse, and more.

Responsibilities

A Safety Manager in the trucking industry has several key responsibilities, including but not limited to.

Developing and Implementing Safety Policies and Procedures

Developing safety policies, procedures, and guidelines that cover all aspects of trucking operations, from driver behavior to vehicle maintenance and cargo handling.
Ensuring that safety protocols are clear, well-documented, and easily accessible to all employees.

Driver Qualification

Ensuring that all drivers meet regulatory requirements for commercial driving, including valid commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and medical certifications.
Overseeing driver background checks such as MVR, clearinghouse, drug testing, and driving record reviews.

Conducting Safety Audits and Inspections

Safety Managers regularly inspect vehicles, equipment, and facilities to identify potential safety hazards and ensure compliance with safety standards.
They may also perform safety audits to assess the overall safety performance of the company and identify areas for improvement. 

Overseeing Accident Investigation and Reporting 

In the event of an accident, the Safety Manager leads the investigation to determine its cause, assess damages, and implement corrective actions.
They are also responsible for reporting accidents to the appropriate authorities and collaborating with insurance companies, legal teams, and law enforcement to ensure accurate documentation and analysis of incidents.

Providing Safety Training and Education

Safety Managers organize and conduct safety training sessions for drivers and other employees, ensuring they are knowledgeable about safety regulations, company policies, and best practices.

Managing Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs

They oversee the implementation of drug and alcohol testing programs to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and maintain a drug-free fleet workplace.

Monitoring Safety Performance

The Safety Manager continually assesses the company’s safety performance by tracking key safety metrics and analyzing data to identify trends and areas for improvement.

Ensuring Compliance with Regulations

Keeping track of changes in federal, state, and local regulations related to transportation safety.
Collaborating with legal and compliance teams to ensure the company’s adherence to all safety-related laws.

Qualifications

Most companies will hire candidates without prior education or experience and provide them with full education and training.

Perfect candidate for a Safety Manager in the trucking industry typically has the following qualifications:

1. Knowledge of federal and state safety regulations, such as those enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT).

2. A bachelor’s degree in safety transportation or a related field.

3. Experience in the trucking industry, preferably in a safety-related role.

4. Strong communication and leadership skills, as they must effectively communicate safety policies and procedures to employees and lead safety initiatives.

5. Certifications, such as the North American Transportation Management Institute (NATMI) Certified Director of Safety (CDS) or Certified Safety Supervisor (CSS), can be beneficial in demonstrating expertise in the field.

Average Salary

The average salary for a Safety Manager in the trucking industry varies depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size of the company. According to Payscale.com, as of May 2023, the average salary for a Safety Manager in the United States is around $74,000 per year. However, this figure can be higher for those with more experience or working for larger trucking companies.

Popular Outsourcing Position

The safety manager job position is another job that is widely outsourced. Trucking companies from the U.S. often outsource their workload to specialized agencies from South American countries like Colombia, or Balkan and Eastern European countries like Serbia, Bosnia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Poland, and even Russia. 
These countries offer professional services at a heavily reduced price. 

The role of a Safety Manager in the trucking industry is critical in ensuring the safety and well-being of drivers, maintaining compliance with regulations, and protecting the company’s reputation. 
Learn about MCS-150 Form here.
Learn about Highway Use Tax here.
Learn about Heavy Vehicle Use Tax here.
Safety is a popular outsourcing job in trucking, read about it here.
Updated Feb. 2024.