Achieving continuous improvement in preventing workplace accidents requires an ongoing emphasis on avoiding risky practices and behaviors.

With all the emphasis on improved fuel economy, energy conservation, environmental protection and enhanced vehicle functionality, commercial truck and component manufacturers have been busy developing “green” technologies.

Vehicle acquisition can be done by leasing or buying. Both methods offer advantages and disadvantages. The decision depends upon you and your operation, and what makes the most sense for your company’s transportation needs.

Everyone knows the importance of caution when driving and working in winter’s dangerous wet and icy conditions. However, not everyone takes precautions. Reviewing effective winter safety measures with your workforce can help them stay safe, avoiding the human and economic costs generated by accidents.

The next year will offer a wide variety of truck models and options to choose from. This annual truck model preview provides an overview of fundamental specifications for medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The specs detailed herein, by vehicle model, are: cab configuration, gross weight ratings, bumper-to-back-of-cab (BBC) dimensions, engine and transmission choices, and front and rear axle capacities.

Winter weather presents its own particular set of challenges because of unexpected weather changes and the hazards of driving in adverse conditions. As winter approaches, there are a number of things to consider when preparing your fleet and your drivers for this season.

The competency of your driver workforce is dependent upon several factors. The first is having a good selection process to screen out bad drivers, as well as those applicants who don’t have the qualifications for a good fit in your operation. Next, there needs to be a sound training process to help drivers continually increase their skills, knowledge and performance. Even highly experienced truck drivers can boost their abilities and enhance performance through continual training.

Manual material handling equipment, such as carts, hand trucks and pallet jacks are used for a variety of hauling operations and can make these operations safer.

With energy prices continuing to rise and no end in sight, fuel has become an even greater truck operating expense. Good fuel economy is the result of a combination of variables that, if managed effectively, can deliver the best fuel mileage possible for a particular truck.

Come 2010, engine manufacturers will have to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s more stringent diesel emission standards.