Five considerations for setting up a safe and effective range for CDL drivers
The entry-level driver training (ELDT) rule that went into effect on February 7, 2022, details the training curricula that must be followed for drivers wanting to obtain a Class A or B CDL or a passenger, school bus, or hazardous materials endorsement for the first time. Despite the thorough outlines of what must be taught, not much guidance is provided as to how to conduct the training. Having an appropriate range available to train students or conduct refresher or corrective-action training with employees is essential to ensuring a safe and productive training session.
The only information provided in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) is in the definition of range found in 380.605: Range means an area that must be free of obstructions, enables the driver to maneuver safely and free from interference from other vehicles and hazards, and has adequate sight lines. This definition provides a good starting point, but there are other things to consider when setting up your driving range.
Ensure a successful range training session by addressing each of the following:
- Range condition. In order to provide a safe location for drivers to practice, the range must be in good condition. At a minimum, the range should have a solid surface that is free from potholes and debris. If you live an area with seasonal hazards, such as snow or ice, make sure that you have the equipment necessary to clear the range before students enter the area. In areas prone to heavy rain, make sure your range drains properly and doesn’t collect pools of standing water.
- Ground rules. The lead trainer should establish expectations for students while on the range, including:
- Wearing high-visibility vests and closed-toe shoes;
- Putting away cell phones;
- Observing peers as part of the learning process;
- Keeping vehicle windows rolled all the way down, even in inclement weather;
- Wearing gloves whenever inspecting or working on the outside of the vehicle;
- Getting out and looking (GOAL), activating four-way flashers, and tapping the horn before backing;
- Mounting and dismounting the vehicle only when the vehicle is fully stopped and the parking brake is set;
- Making three points of contact when entering and exiting the vehicle to avoid falls;
- Obeying visual and verbal stop commands;
- Going under a vehicle only when the vehicle’s keys are in your hand or pocket;
- Standing in a designated safe area or being escorted by a trainer when the range is active; and
- Reporting injuries or accidents to the trainer immediately.
- Clearly defined objectives and activities. Make sure drivers know exactly what you’re asking them to do before they get behind the wheel. They should know the theory behind each maneuver and be able to verbally explain it to you before they attempt to physically complete the maneuver in a vehicle. Cones, barrels, and other markers should be set up ahead of time and drivers should know where markers are located around the vehicle.
- Patience. If a driver is struggling or gets overwhelmed, pause the activity to offer guidance and give the driver a chance to regroup. Pressuring a driver to “hurry up” or “do it right” is an invitation to disaster.
- Practical matters. You should also consider practical matters when planning your range:
- Let students know where the bathrooms are located,
- Provide shaded or heated areas to keep drivers safe in extreme weather,
- Have one or more clearly marked safe areas for drivers to stand in and observe when they are not in the vehicle, and
- Notify students where they should assemble in the event of an emergency.
Training students behind the wheel requires much more than simply putting a student in the driver’s seat. By carefully preparing your range and your drivers, you can make sure that you are providing a safe and effective driver-training area.
Key to remember: Being prepared is key to ensuring drivers have a safe and effective range training session.