CDL Driver
Description
1. Purpose
This policy defines the responsibilities, expectations, and performance standards for Off‑Road Truck Drivers. The goal is to ensure safe, efficient, and productive hauling operations that support field production and project success.
2. Role Overview
Off‑Road Truck Drivers are responsible for operating haul trucks safely and efficiently to move materials such as dirt, rock, aggregate, and debris across project sites.
Drivers work under the direction of the Project Superintendent and Foreman, and coordinate closely with Equipment Operators, Surveyors, and the Trucking Manager.
They play a critical role in production, safety, and equipment care.
3. Core Responsibilities & Performance Standards
A. Safe Operation of Haul Trucks
Responsibilities
- Operate off‑road trucks according to manufacturer guidelines and company safety standards.
- Conduct pre‑shift inspections and immediately report defects or hazards.
- Maintain awareness of ground personnel, equipment, and site conditions.
- Follow all traffic patterns, speed limits, and haul‑road rules.
Performance Standards
- Zero preventable incidents or unsafe behaviors.
- Pre‑shift inspections completed accurately every day.
- Truck operated smoothly, safely, and professionally.
B. Hauling & Production Efficiency
Responsibilities
Haul materials efficiently between loading and dumping locations.
- Maintain consistent cycle times and support daily production goals.
- Follow spotter instructions, hand signals, and radio communication.
- Avoid unnecessary idling, delays, or inefficient routes.
Performance Standards
- Cycle times consistent with project expectations.
- Minimal downtime due to operator error.
- Hauling supports overall project production targets.
C. Equipment Care & Preventive Maintenance
Responsibilities
- Perform daily walk‑arounds, fluid checks, and basic maintenance.
- Keep truck clean, fueled, and properly lubricated.
- Report mechanical issues immediately to the Foreman and Equipment Manager.
- Protect equipment from damage, misuse, or unnecessary wear.
Performance Standards
- Equipment downtime minimized through early reporting.
- Trucks kept clean and well‑maintained.
- No preventable damage due to negligence.
D. Communication & Coordination
Responsibilities
- Maintain clear communication with Operators, Foremen, and Superintendents.
- Use radios and hand signals correctly and consistently.
- Coordinate movements to avoid conflicts with other trucks and equipment.
- Ask for clarification when instructions are unclear.
Performance Standards
- Smooth coordination with loading and dumping operations.
- No miscommunication‑related delays or safety issues.
- Professional, respectful communication at all times.
E. Site Awareness & Safety Compliance
Responsibilities
- Maintain awareness of haul‑road conditions, slopes, berms, and traffic.
- Follow all site‑specific safety plans and JHAs.
- Use required PPE and follow lockout/tagout procedures when applicable.
- Stop work and notify leadership if unsafe conditions exist.
Performance Standards
- Hazards identified and addressed proactively.
- Full compliance with PPE and safety procedures.
- Positive safety behavior observed by leadership.
F. Quality & Dumping Accuracy
Responsibilities
- Dump materials in designated locations safely and accurately.
- Avoid over‑dumping, spillage, or contamination of materials.
- Follow grade stakes and instructions from Surveyors and Foremen.
- Notify leadership of soft spots, ruts, or unsafe dump areas.
Performance Standards
- Clean, accurate dumping with minimal corrections.
- No damage to haul roads, slopes, or work areas.
- Positive feedback from Operators and Superintendents.
4. Daily Workflow Summary
Start of Day
- Conduct pre‑shift inspection
- Receive task briefing from Foreman
- Review haul routes and site hazards
Morning Work Block
- Begin hauling operations
- Maintain communication with loader operators
- Monitor truck performance and site conditions
Midday Check‑In
- Refuel or service truck as needed
- Review progress with Foreman
- Adjust hauling routes or cycle times if required
Afternoon Work Block
- Continue hauling operations
- Report hazards or road conditions
- Document issues or maintenance needs
End of Day
- Park truck safely
- Complete shutdown procedures
- Report maintenance needs
- Clean truck and secure attachments
5. Weekly Rhythm
- Monday: Review weekly production goals and haul‑road changes
- Wednesday: Mid‑week equipment condition review
- Friday: Report truck hours, issues, and maintenance needs