Overview

This procedure outlines the requirements of Unit Heads and Authorized Operators with regards to the safe operations of Fleet Units. 

Procedure

1. Unit Heads will ensure that Authorized Operators comply with University policy, related procedures and applicable laws such as the:

• Highway Traffic Act, 
• Motor Vehicle Safety Act, 
• Motor Vehicle Transport Act, 
• Transport Canada,
• Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act. 

Unit Heads must ensure that Authorized Operators complete an online, self-paced driver awareness training program which focuses on safe and efficient driving habits and any necessary refreshers or related training as specified by Facilities Management.

2. Operators are to complete a Daily Driver’s Vehicle Inspection form at the beginning of shift and at the end of shift when operating a Fleet Unit. The completed forms should be kept on file with the Operating Unit as part of the records required by the Fleet Management Program. 

3. Winter tires are strongly recommended they are specifically designed to provide better performance and safety in cold weather conditions. Winter tires (where applicable) are mandatory for any new additions to the University Fleet.
4. For the operation of certain Fleet Units, a special license and/or endorsement must be held. For example:

• In order to operate a vehicle carrying eleven passengers including the driver or a maximum of twenty-four passengers, the driver must have a valid class 4 driver's license.
• To operate a tractor type Fleet Unit (e.g., Dozer, Excavator), the operator must have a minimum of a class 5 driver's license with a traction engine endorsement. If the tractor or the Fleet Unit is equipped with air brakes, an air brake endorsement must also be held. Authorized Operators of Fleet Units with air brakes are required to take an air brake certification course. When the job requirement necessitates an upgraded license and a medical is required to obtain that license, the University will cover cost of the medical, driving test fee, and difference of cost between a class 5 and the class license required and/or required endorsements for one time only.
• Fleet Units are required to carry a valid insurance card and registration at all times. Emergency markers (flares, reflectors) must also be carried if the Fleet Unit has a maximum gross mass in excess of forty-five hundred kilograms (4,500) for the purpose of warning the travelling public of an emergency breakdown. It is the responsibility of the Authorized Operator to ensure these items are in the Fleet Unit.

• Fleet Units in excess of 4,500 kilograms maximum gross mass may be subject to a highway inspection by officials of the Provincial government department of transportation. It is compulsory that the maintenance binder supplied be completed and up to date.
• Off-road Fleet includes any motor vehicle designed or adapted for off-road use. These include: all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), snowmobiles, amphibious vehicles, utility vehicles, side-by-sides, dune buggies and dirt bikes. Helmets are mandatory for all off-road Fleet. Operating Units must ensure that appropriately certified helmets are available and used at all times.
• Vessels /Boats – Unit Heads will ensure all Authorized Operators are familiar with and abide by all safety requirements and any local restrictions directed by the Government of Canada’s Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Transport Canada, or the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture or other jurisdictional authority. Unit Heads will ensure all necessary certifications required by the above regulatory bodies are kept on file with Facilities Management.

Further information on special licenses or endorsements may be obtained from Facilities Management.