Kinston, N.C.-based Tidewater Transit wins the 2013 Volvo Trucks Safety Award in the +20-million-mile category.At the 2013 American Trucking Associations Management Conference & Exhibition, Volvo Trucks and supporting sponsor Michelin America Truck Tires recognized Tidwater Transit, Kinston, N.C., and MCO Transport, Wilmington, N.C., as winners of the fifth annual Volvo Trucks Safety Award.
Tidewater Transit won the award in the more than 20 million mile category, while MCO Transport won for the less than 20 million mile category.
“Tidewater Transit and MCO Transport have made safety a top priority, and their outstanding performance reflects that commitment,” said Gӧran Nyberg, president of Volvo Trucks North American Sales & Marketing. “Like Volvo, the winners of this year’s award understand the importance of integrating safety into every facet of their operations.”
Tidewater Transit, a bulk hauler which operates 360 trucks, had an accident frequency rate of only .25 with more than 31 million miles.
One of the reasons Volvo Trucks and Michelin cited the company was for its “Top Gun” program, which pairs new hires with a hand-picked driver/trainer who oversees the full training of a new driver and ensures he or she has the knowledge and skills needed to operate on the road. Additionally, Tidewater Transit recognizes safe drivers with a quarterly cash bonus program, which includes presentation of certificates and plaques during company events when families are in attendance.
“Safety goes to the very core of what we do. We have to be safe in this industry,” said John McNairy, Tidewater Transit chairman and CEO. “We are so humbled and proud to be winners of the 2013 Volvo Trucks Safety Award.”
MCO Transport, a container transporter with a fleet of 88 trucks, logged 5.9 million miles with an accident frequency rate of just .167 — just a single recordable accident.
MCO Transport’s multifaceted approach to safety is built around clearly defined policies and procedures. The company also holds mandatory quarterly safety meetings and developed a recognition program for drivers who receive no violations during DOT roadside inspections.
“Safety is of prime importance to MCO Transport – it’s our number one goal. We’ve made it part of our culture,” said Danny McComas, MCO Transport president. “This award is a culmination of all our effort after many years. It’s confirmation of the fact that you can run a trucking operation and always be safe.”
