New federal requirements for entry-level driver training for the commercial driver license (CDL) go into effect on Feb. 7.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations for entry-level driver training (ELDT) for CDL licenses were mandated under the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21 Century Act (MAP-21).

ELDT regulations establish the baseline for training required for entry-level drivers. They apply to anyone:

• seeking a Class A or Class B CDL for the first time
• upgrading an existing Class B CDL to Class A CDL
• obtaining a first-time school bus (S), passenger (P) or hazardous materials (H) endorsement.

ATSSA’s 52^nd Annual Convention & Traffic Expo reunites roadway safety industry experts in Tampa, Fla., Feb. 11-15.

The five-day event is in person and features all of the popular activities of years past including the ATSS Foundation golf and sporting clays events plus dozens of opportunities to hear from industry experts, check out the latest innovations in roadway safety, explore a nearly 200,000-square-foot Expo floor and enjoy in-person networking both informally and through special events for groups such as Young Industry Professionals.

Plus, for the first time, the Expo will include outdoor demonstrations and vehicle displays.

ATSSA recently developed three work zone safety publications under the Work Zone Safety Grant Program, which were approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The documents include one with a Spanish version and address pedestrian safety and accommodation as well as portable temporary rumble strips application (PTRS) in work zones. 

These new resources are now available:  “Updated Pedestrians Checklist and Considerations for Temporary Traffic Control Zones,” Everyone is a Pedestrian: For a Safe Path Through Work Zones – Don’t Miss Your Cues” and State Examples for the Application of Portable Temporary Rumble Strips (PTRS).”

ATSSA has partnered with Certified Safe Driver Inc. (CSD Inc.) to bring driver education courses and services to its members at a discount.

Members can choose from more than a dozen courses and services including Defensive Driving for Class A, B and C; Licensing School for Class A, B and C; Truck Driver School for the CDL Class, A, B and C; License Upgrade CDL School and One-to-One Behind the Wheel Evaluation.

“We are always looking for ways to enhance our training offerings and meet the needs of our members,” ATSSA Training Director Rameeza Shaikh said. “This partnership with Certified Safe Driver Inc. provides an excellent way to provide driver education courses to our members at a great rate. Well-trained drivers help keep the roadways safe.”

Start preparing now for the Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) eighth annual National Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction scheduled for May 3-7.

All industries engaged in construction work are encouraged to take part to raise awareness of the hazards and provide training for their personnel.

OSHA is offering resources for employers at a webpage dedicated to the National Safety Stand-Down.