An
important recurring question from members relates to qualifying a driver and
setting a driver qualification policy.
Enduris
members have various qualifying needs. Some drivers must be eligible to
drive heavy equipment, while others drive a private passenger vehicle. A
few common elements of qualifying a driver includes: past driving history,
responsible driving habits, and training. While Enduris does not
pro-actively qualify drivers, Enduris does strongly recommend that our members
establish a written policy relating to driver eligibility.
Driver
eligibility is one component of a written vehicle safety program.
Following a well-established written vehicle safety program will help your
district reduce risk while on the road.
Here
are some tips for establishing a driver qualification program:
1.
Employing drivers with unacceptable driving records, or
suspended or revoked licenses could lead to claims of negligent hiring,
negligent entrustment or negligent supervision. Enduris recommends an
initial review as well as a periodic follow-up review of the Motor Vehicle
Records (MVR) to verify the existence of a valid driver's license and to review
the applicant's/employee's driving history.
2.
Enduris members should require all employees who operate a motor
vehicle for business operations to successfully complete a driver orientation
and training program within a specific time frame after placing that employee
in a driving position.
3.
Driver training courses completed by personnel should be
documented and kept in the individual's personnel file.
4.
For commercial driver's license requirements and standards,
refer to RCW 46.25.