Are EOBRs an Instrument of Fleet Profitability — or Truck Driver Harassment?
December 17, 2012EOBRs: Hours of Service compliance safeguard and fleet productivity tool–or truck driver harassment device? As you’re certainly aware, the debate continues to rage with staunch advocates in each camp. So, in preparation for a rulemaking expected on February 14 (Happy Valentine’s Day, y’all!), the FMCSA is looking to professional truck drivers and carriers for feedback.
Survey on truck driver harassment
On December 13, the FMCSA submitted an Information Collection Request to the White House Office of Management and Budget. If approved, the agency will move forward on a survey of drivers and carriers in an attempt to get at the heart of the matter.
Will EOBRs be used to harass drivers? How? Might drivers feel coerced into accepting loads or driving when they feel they need a break, because carriers, brokers and shippers can monitor their location and remaining hours?
In a recent X Nation discussion, driver, Richard Gaskill said, “The EOBR’s in our trucks send corporate safety a notification every time we exceed 65 m.p.h. or hard brake, then they send out monthly reports listing every notification. Ridiculous. I think it’s quite foolish. Why document that over 90% of your drivers defy your rules?”
On the flip side, driver, Greg Cameron, had this to say: “Our company doesn’t harass us at all. Not too sure this may be an overblown issue.”
Regardless of where you stand on EOBRs and truck driver harassment, the FMCSA is asking you to speak up.
Submit your comments to the FMCSA
Between now and February 11, you may submit your own comments on the proposed survey and the issue of truck driver harassment.
Regardless of whether you voice your opinion online, by mail or fax, be sure to include Docket No. FMCSA-2012-0309.
Online – Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal
Mail – Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
Hand Delivery or Courier – West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Fax – 1-202-493-2251.
So, where do you stand on the issue of EOBRs and truck driver harassment? We’d love to hear your thoughts.
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