Keeping up with the laws and regulations that govern your business operations is essential. Obtaining guidance from specialists or compliance consultants can help you avoid legal challenges and keep your policies in line with international standards. Ensuring compliance is a continuous process of scanning for new laws and regulations that impact your organization, implementing policy changes, and monitoring.
Background Checks for Non-Commercial Drivers
Commercial drivers operate vehicles that can cause much more damage than standard automobiles. This is why the DOT sets such stringent standards for those operating these vehicles. As such, any company regulated by the DOT must conduct DOT background checks on every employee who will operate commercial vehicles. DOT criminal background checks verify a driver’s record against state, local, and federal databases, looking for offences that could jeopardize the safety of other drivers and passengers. In addition, a DOT background check requires employers to contact previous employers to get a copy of a driver’s MVR (motor vehicle records). This record will feature information such as driving-related convictions, moving violations, and license suspensions, depending on the state. As part of a DOT background check, a driver must also submit to a drug screening test. This test will reveal whether an individual has a positive result on an official drug screen and provide insight into their recent drug use and history. Those conducting DOT background checks should be familiar with the regulations for each state, including ban-the-box laws and the requirements for accessing specific categories of data. They should also be aware that applicants and employees are entitled to a written notice before running a background check and a chance to dispute or correct inaccurate information on the report.
Background Checks for Commercial Drivers
Truck driving is an essential service but requires high skill and fitness. Drivers must be able to manage long drives and navigate tight spaces, all while remaining safe on the road. Because of this, DOT (Department of Transportation) and FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) require special background checks for drivers of commercial vehicles. These checks are often complex and sieve a candidate’s history to mitigate risk. They also help employers stay compliant to avoid costly fines and penalties. Performing these specialized background checks ensures that your company hires only the most qualified drivers. A basic DOT background check includes drug and alcohol testing, employment verifications for the past three years, a motor vehicle record check for every state where the applicant has held a license, and a medical certification that attests to the driver’s physical and mental ability to drive for extended periods. A DOT drug test examines marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, and opioids. DOT regulations prohibit a candidate from returning to work until cleared by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). Many companies conduct a DOT pre-hire drug test and an annual MVR and SAP check to ensure compliance. Some DOT and FMCSA rules require that a CDL holder undergo a physical exam every two years to verify that they can safely operate a CMV.
Background Checks for Truck Drivers
DOT background checks are a crucial part of the hiring process for trucking companies. These checks verify the history of a driver’s DOT-regulated employment and work experience and provide detailed information on driving records, drug and alcohol violations, and more. In addition to these reports, the FMCSA requires that motor carriers create and maintain a driver qualification file for each employee. These checks may seem extensive, but they’re necessary for several reasons. First and foremost, they protect the safety of all drivers on the road. Trucking company employees are responsible for transporting valuable merchandise that can be easily damaged or stolen by criminals.
Moreover, they drive large trucks that are extremely dangerous to operate. Having unsafe drivers on the roads increases the risk of vehicle crashes and deaths. The best way to ensure that your trucking company hires safe and qualified drivers is to conduct thorough vetting. By following the DOT’s guidelines, you can rest assured that your business complies. When the transportation industry is facing a shortage of drivers, it can be tempting to cut corners in the vetting process. However, it’s important to remember that the Department of Transportation requires a background check, so taking shortcuts could lead to costly fines and regulatory action. Luckily, the DOT provides a checklist for employers to follow to conduct thorough and legally compliant vetting.
Background Checks for Bus Drivers
For school children’s safety, bus drivers must have a clean driving record and not use drugs or alcohol while on the job. A DOT background check can help ensure this. Unlike standard employment verifications, which look for information like previous job titles, termination dates, and salary history, a DOT background check goes much further to determine whether an employee has been involved in any accidents while on the road or in a commercial vehicle. It also includes an interview that asks about substance abuse issues. The results of these interviews and other DOT-regulated checks are placed into a driver qualification file that the motor carrier must maintain. A health professional also checks these files to determine if an applicant has any medical conditions that could interfere with their ability to drive safely, such as Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive impairments. In addition, a pre-employment DOT physical is required by law. DOT-compliant driver monitoring services automatically compile a complete and up-to-date driver qualifications file every time your employees are rescreened. The service notifies you of any new infractions, expirations, or DUI/DWI convictions so that you can stay compliant with DOT regulations without worrying about your employees’ driving records. This service clears the way for safer transportation by reducing the risk of severe accidents and injuries caused by unsafe commercial drivers.
