The terrorist events of September 11th have caused us, as a nation, to take a hard look at the everyday activities around us from a safety and security standpoint. In addition, the federal Department of Transportation has asked the trucking industry to take steps aimed at improving our nation’s security as trucks visit basically every American city – every day.

For these reasons, as well as for the safety and security of our valued customers and Southeastern associates, we have enacted the following:

All Drivers:
The DOT will increase the number of vehicle inspections, concentrating on placarded trailers. For HazMat loads, ensure all shipping papers are correct. Ensure the trailer is properly placarded. Verify that the Hazardous Materials certificate from the DOT is in the cab. Verify that there is a copy of the Emergency Response Guidebook (EGR) in the cab. Ensure that Blocking and Bracing of all HM loads is adequate/secure. HM bills must be placed on the driver’s seat when you are out of the tractor. The DOT has stated that it will stop and question any truck that appears to be off route.

Ignition keys cannot be left in the tractors parked at the Service Centers. Your IQ supervisor will tell you what the key security process is at your location. Tractors are to be locked whenever you are away from your unit at a delivery or on break. Breaks should be taken with security in mind – avoid isolated locations. We request that you do not park a placarded vehicle in public roadside rest areas unless absolutely necessary.

P&D Drivers:
All trailers are to padlocked during delivery/pick-up. This includes locking the trailer while you are making multiple trips inside a customer’s location. Notify your Service Center of any new customer that is requesting that you pick-up HM. Whenever routing will permit, you should attempt to deliver HM shipments first. You know our customers and their chemical shipping habits better than anyone; notify your Service Center if anything out of the norm occurs. Do not accept HM freight that is not properly described or packaged.

Road Drivers:
Expect more inspections at the scales. Have your logs current, your bills in order, your license and medical card handy. Linehaul trailers do not have to be padlocked – however you must inspect the seal after every stop en route. Do not take rest breaks on entrance/exit ramps – instead stop at Service Centers or public facilities (fuel stops, etc.). CB conversations should not mention your cargo or your origin/destination.

The DOT is asking all drivers to report to local authorities any activity that appears suspicious or unusual. They understand the value of having thousands of professional drivers on our streets and highways every day as it relates to our nation’s security.

At Southeastern, your safety and the safety of others always comes first. These steps are mostly common sense, but are aimed at improving your personal safety as well as responding to our government’s request for assistance. Please let your Service Center Manager know of any further suggestions you may have.

Thank you, be safe
and may God Bless America!