OVACO Dedicated Account Celebrates 500 days Collision Free

All of us in J.B. Hunt’s Dedicated Carrier Services take safety seriously. As drivers we constantly keep the Smith System keys in our minds as we deliver our customer’s loads quickly and efficiently. As managers we set an example, bring relevant safety topics to the forefront of drivers’ minds, and when necessary step in to address behavior that may be unsafe. All this conversation, effort, and intention forms a strong safety culture at J.B. Hunt; this is one of the major areas in which we stand out from our competitors.

As with each DCS account the OVACO dedicated fleet faces its own unique set of challenges.  These 26 drivers deliver heavy loads of aluminum logs and billet to extrusion companies throughout the Midwest. These delivery sites are not simple or easy. Stacks of billet obstruct the yards, loose scrap threatens tires and shins, and tight docks fraught with poorly parked scrap trailers tighten these drivers’ already narrow margins of error. Throughout all the challenges these drivers remain committed to their safety culture. They look ahead, scanning the delivery sites as they pull in. They get out and look before backing as many times as they need to ensure their safety. They keep their eyes moving, always ready to immediately stop if something changes. They choose the maneuver that affords them the most space, even breaking out cones if they need to reinforce the boundaries of that space. They use their hazard lights and flashers to ensure everyone around them is aware of their maneuver.

 

On April 3^rd 2017 this care and attention to detail lead to a significant safety milestone:

500 days’ preventable collision free!