Safety Training Creates Transport Driver Engagement
State police assist in hazardous materials training
Illinois State Troopers understand the wheeled hazards traveling down roadways throughout Illinois better than anybody else. GROWMARK recently partnered with the Illinois State Police to provide safety training to independent carriers delivering products to the FS System that focused on the safe handling and transport of anhydrous ammonia. The concepts discussed also applied to the safe delivery of bulk fuels and propane.
The training featured an Illinois state trooper who discussed the hazardous material issues they find along the roadways, violations commonly found during truck inspections, and how best to work together to ensure public safety on the roadways. The training put the trooper and the drivers in the same room which fostered an active discussion demonstrating the GROWMARK System’s commitment to safety.
With more than 60,000 transport loads delivered each year to FS facilities of just anhydrous ammonia and propane, it is imperative to have safety collaboration and engagement between our carriers and retail operations.
GROWMARK also engages with drivers regarding safety expectations by seeking their feedback on improvements that can be made during deliveries. This feedback from drivers, coupled with safety suggestions, are used to make safety improvements at FS facilities.
Facility safety expectations to ensure driver, employee, and community safety include:
- Emergency shut-off equipment that is accessible, clearly marked, and functionable
- Emergency safety water that is clean and accessible
- Bulkhead hose connections that are clearly labeled and functionable
- Safe area for drivers to function without walking through water or on ice
- Guarding of plumbing and tanks to prevent vehicle impact
- Emergency contact information posted and protocols in place if needed.
Drivers are also reminded of their safety expectations to chock wheels when loading/unloading, ensure connecting the transfer hose to the proper tank, actively monitor the off-loading process, wear proper safety equipment, and to drive carefully within our facilities.
Safety doesn’t happen by accident, but when we work together, we can achieve the best results for our drivers, our employees, and the communities they work and live in.