Fleet operations: A balancing act between efficiency and safety

Written by Leonard D'Orlando,

As a fleet manager, running a cost effective and efficient fleet safely is paramount to its success.  This is a challenge that must be faced and overcome on a daily basis.  When presented with any number of external forces out of the control of the fleet operator, then this process becomes even more difficult.  The ability to run a fleet in inclement weather mainly snow and ice conditions is one such challenge. 

Fleet operations in inclement weather

Options for some fleets range from simply not running or run a limited schedule with a few vehicles.  For some fleets, however, these are not options as they must continue to operate  because of the cargo being transported. Fleet drivers who run in adverse conditions will sometimes travel through states that have chain up areas where the driver may be required to use a traction device.  If they are using conventional tire chains, then the driver must get out of the vehicle and deal with the task of having to strap these chains around the tires.  The process of chaining up leads to down time where the driver can spend hours at risk on the side of the road. Even if states in which the vehicle is driven does not require chain up, the advantages of an onboard traction device, always at the ready cannot be understated.

Safely keeping the wheels turning

One such device to consider for your traction needs is the Onspot automatic tire chain system. Sometimes an operator can simply be driving on a clear road and then come to a certain section of the road where the sun does not hit and find themselves on ice.  Sometimes a driver may simply be trying to get in and out of an icy loading dock, or truck stop parking lot.  Using conventional chains for these situations would not be practical and sometimes traction aids like sand are not always available, but the Onspot system is ready at the flip of a switch thereby improving fleet efficiency.

A cost effective solution

What about cost?  Some may be hesitant because of cost.  If the system, however, can prevent a driver from getting into a situation where they become stuck or damage equipment to maneuver the vehicle to get traction (even just one time) then the system has paid for itself.  The system is often less of an expense than one tow bill or any replacement of major drive line components.  For more insights and experiences from actual Onspot customers click on the following link:

Watch What Customers Say

 

Fleet Managers Improving Fleet Productivity Commercial Drivers automatic tire chains Fleet Productivity traction driver safety 5 ways to improve uptime of your fleets!

Leonard D'Orlando

About Leonard D'Orlando

Leonard has six years with Onspot Automatic Tire Chains in North America. Four years as a field technician on the East Coast and two years as a Regional Sales Manager. During the four years as a field technician Leonard provided install and maintenance training to dealers. Leonard also performed fleet reviews for customers and provided technical service support. An alumnus from the University of Maine, Leonard graduated with a B.A. in English and a concentration in Education. Leonard also attended Texas State Technical College where he earned an associate’s degree in automotive mechanics.

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