Toolbox Talk: Driving for Work

Seat belt on, phone away, rested and unhurried. Vehicle crashes are a leading cause of work deaths.

Prints on one Letter-size page with a sign-in sheet.

First Day Training · Toolbox TalkTime: 5 to 10 minutes

Driving for Work

Date
Job site / location
Talk leader

Why it matters

Crashes are one of the leading causes of work-related deaths. Driving between sites and to work is part of the job.

Talking points

  • Seat belt every time: belts cut the risk of death in a crash by about half. Everyone in the vehicle buckles up.
  • Phone away: no texting, calls or scrolling while driving. Pull over if you must use your phone.
  • Drive rested and sober: don't drive drowsy or after alcohol, drugs or medicines that cause drowsiness.
  • Slow down and leave room: speed and tailgating cause many crashes, so match your speed to the road, weather and load.
  • Check the vehicle: look at tires, lights, brakes, mirrors and fluids before leaving. Report problems.
  • Secure the load: tie down tools and materials so they can't shift or fall, and don't overload the vehicle.

Ask the crew

  1. Who is driving today, and where?
  2. What is our rule about phones in the vehicle?
  3. How do we handle rushing to get to the next site?

Before we start work today: Do a walk-around check of each work vehicle and confirm loads are secured.

Who attended

Source: OSHA: Motor vehicle safety. General safety information only, not legal advice; follow your employer’s program, the manufacturer’s instructions and current regulations. Keep signed sheets with your safety records. FirstDayTraining.com · Todd Allyn Media Inc.

Learn more: Driving for Work · Defensive Driving · Seat Belts & Airbags

Standards & references

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