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Orientation & Safety
A culture built on safety delivers results.
Above all else, Schneider values the importance of safety. It’s at the heart of our core values and the cornerstone of our commitment to drivers, customers and the motoring public. It is also evident in the way we treat each and every one of our associates, and why we work so hard to ensure safe working conditions – not only for truck drivers – but also the motoring public with whom we share the road. After all, your friends and family drive alongside us every day. And that’s a privilege we take very seriously.
"[We are] dedicated to proving and maintaining safe working conditions for all our associates, and proactive training is critical for us...we are always seeking smart technologies, and then working to bring them into our fleet."
- Chris Lofgren, President and CEO
Gearing up to hit the road safely, with confidence.
Getting familiar with Schneider is the first step in your journey as a new member of our family. We care about you, and firmly believe that safety goes beyond orientation. Because safety is directly linked to the confidence drivers must display on the job, we go further to keep it at the forefront of every load.
Key actions keep all of us safer.
At Schneider, associates are encouraged to operate with our key focus in mind: Efficiency and effectiveness to supply customers with record service levels can be achieved both safely and legally.
Ongoing Training Initiatives
Continuous training is part of what keeps drivers sharp and focused, regardless of experience level. We use a number of training methods – simulator, computer-based and in-cab – providing learning opportunities, safety reminders and confidence boosters that help drivers like you make the most of the skills you already bring to the job.
Technology
We pride ourselves on creating tools that make drivers’ lives easier. Our latest in-cab technology is truly groundbreaking. It allows drivers to keep both hands safely on the wheel and eyes on the road while receiving important information throughout the course of the workday. New functionality includes text-to-voice messaging, GPS navigation capabilities, electronic logging, wireless Internet connectivity and more. Here’s what Schneider drivers are saying.
Stay Alert, Stay Alive
This is a Schneider-developed program addressing fatigue management; it includes a proactive approach to achieving proper rest everyday.
Fatigue Management and Sleep Apnea Screening
Sleep Apnea has been generating a lot of attention in the past several years as a growing concern for millions of people. Schneider's recognition of this health concern has lead to industry-leading best practices that help our drivers to get the much-needed rest required to be safe on the road. Schneider provides diagnostic screening, treatment (Free CPAP Machine) and ongoing monitoring.
General Orientation Process
Experienced drivers joining our Van divisions are introduced through a brief, 4-day orientation program. You'll get paid $150 for attending and completing the session. Tanker drivers are scheduled to complete a 14-day orientation; however, pay and length of orientation may vary based on driver experience.
Pre-Work Screen
A pre-work screen is used to assess whether you can safely perform the essential functions of truck driving. Upon passing the pre-work screen, you will proceed with your orientation. Click here to download (.wmv) the pre-work screen video to see what is expected.
Additional Classroom Training
Classroom training includes an introduction to Schneider’s mobile communications system, a trip planning refresher and most importantly, a review of safety tips designed to keep you and those around you from getting hurt on the job.
Tractor Simulators
An integral component of our ongoing focus on safety includes the use of advanced technology through state-of-the-art tractor simulators. During your orientation, you will have the opportunity to enter a realistic, virtual environment, allowing you to safely practice maneuvering through potentially hazardous situations without risk.
Road Test
Our road test includes a pre-trip inspection, coupling/uncoupling procedure and a 15-20 mile road course.
DOT Drug Screen
Conducted onsite or prior to orientation.
Schneider Principles and Procedures
Core Values: Safety first and always, Integrity, Respect and Excellence
Processing Forms
- Fair Credit Reporting Act Information
- Drug Authorization
- Team Driver Release
- Washington Resident Release
- North Dakota Resident Release
Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years old (DOT requirement)
- Hold a valid CDL (must be issued by your state of residence)
- Clean driving record
- Solid work history
- Tanker division requirements include:
- Tanker endorsement
- Haz mat endorsement
- TWIC card
- FAST card (Required for Regional drivers in the Midwest and NE, optional for all others)
Recently Overheard at Driver Orientation
I’ve heard that if you’re tired, you can stop. The last company I worked for never would have let me off that easy.
Schneider’s Response: It’s true. Of course service is important to us. It allows us to keep our current business strong and grow with new business wins. But we also have a firm commitment to both our drivers and the motoring public to operate in a safe, responsible manner. It’s a responsibility we take very seriously. If a driver finds him/herself in a position where he/she does not feel capable of completing a load safely, it is important to consider safety the number one priority.
My buddy drives for Schneider — told me that he was never asked to ‘cheat’ his logs or to run longer just to make a load. Where I was before, I was always over on my hours.
Schneider’s Response: We do everything we can to make your driving experience the best it can be. Yes, it is hard work, and we do have processes in place to keep our drivers safe and legal. But we’ve found that great drivers who take their work seriously thrive here. We’re constantly working to develop tools and techniques that empower our drivers to do their best work and make smart decisions for themselves and our company.