A Game-Changer for Fleet Management

In an era where road safety and efficiency are paramount for businesses that rely on fleet operations, the National Safety Council has taken a significant step forward. We are excited to announce the North Dakota Safety Council is now offering Fleet Essentials, a comprehensive online training program developed by the National Safety Council (NSC). This innovative training is designed to enhance the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of companies that use fleet drivers as part of their operations.

Did you know approximately 15.5 million professional fleet drivers still need formalized driver training? Transportation incidents are the #1 cause of work-related deaths. That’s where Fleet Essentials steps in to help.

Fleet Essential Courses:

NSC recommends that all learners complete a Defensive Driving course [for example, DDC 10, DDC 10X online, DDC 11 online, Professional Truck Driver (PTD) (online or classroom)] before completing the Fleet Essentials program.

DDC is the foundation. The additional training is necessary as it isn’t being provided or taught now for commercial fleet drivers. The training goes beyond what is taught for regular licensing.

Fleet Essentials then offers an online driver safety training program consisting of six courses, with three core courses focused on vehicle-specific training. The three Fleet Essentials core courses are Driving Professionally, Distracted Fleet Driver, and Vehicle Dynamics. The three vehicle-specific courses are Passenger Vehicles, Delivery Vehicles, and Medium-Duty Trucks. Courses cover essential content on topics such as backing, dynamics, inspections, and safety.

Why Fleet Essentials?

Fleet management is a critical component of many businesses, encompassing everything from logistics and delivery services to field operations and company vehicle usage. Properly trained fleet drivers not only ensure the safety of their vehicles but also contribute to overall company efficiency and reduced operational costs. Recognizing these needs, Fleet Essentials provides an all-encompassing approach to fleet driver training.

Key Benefits of Fleet Essentials:

  1. Enhanced Safety: Fleet Essentials is designed to significantly improve driver safety. By focusing on defensive driving techniques, hazard recognition, and safe driving behaviors, the training helps reduce the risk of accidents, protect employees, and minimize the likelihood of costly insurance claims.
  2. Cost Savings: Effective fleet management can lead to substantial cost savings. The training addresses vehicle maintenance, fuel efficiency, and driver behavior, all of which contribute to lower operational costs. By minimizing accidents and improving vehicle longevity, companies can see a marked reduction in expenses.
  3. Compliance and Risk Management: Staying compliant with federal and state regulations is crucial for fleet operators. Fleet Essentials helps businesses stay up-to-date with relevant laws and regulations, thereby reducing legal risks and ensuring that fleet operations meet industry standards.
  4. Convenience and Flexibility: The online format of Fleet Essentials means that companies can train their drivers without disrupting their daily operations. The training modules are accessible from anywhere, allowing for flexible scheduling and self-paced learning, which is ideal for busy fleet managers and drivers.
  5. Comprehensive Training Modules: Fleet Essentials covers a wide range of topics essential for effective fleet management. From understanding vehicle dynamics and managing driver fatigue to mastering emergency response techniques and accident investigation, the training offers a well-rounded education for fleet drivers.

How to Get Started with Fleet Essentials

Getting started with Fleet Essentials through the North Dakota Safety Council is straightforward. Businesses interested in enhancing their fleet safety and management practices can contact NDSC directly to learn more about the program, enrollment options, and pricing.

  1. Learn More: See what courses your company needs to create your Fleet Essentials Online Training. https://www.ndsc.org/ndsc-fleet-essentials-online-training/
  2. Have Questions?: We’re here to help. Driver Safety Manager, Terry Weaver can help answer questions on what your company needs. Email terryw@ndsc.org

The introduction of Fleet Essentials by the North Dakota Safety Council marks a significant advancement in fleet management training. By leveraging the expertise of the National Safety Council and offering an accessible online platform, NDSC is providing businesses with the tools they need to enhance safety, efficiency, and compliance within their fleet operations.

Investing in Fleet Essentials is not just about training drivers—it’s about fostering a culture of safety and efficiency that benefits both the employees and the organization as a whole. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your fleet management practices and safeguard your business’s future.