In this fast-paced world, where trucking companies need to use various commercial vehicles, they have to follow a myriad of compliance rules. Out of those, keeping a positive track record of NSC Audit is vital.
What are NSC Audits, it’s importance, and what checklist, we will navigate through it in detail in this blog post. So, let’s proceed.
What are NSC Audits?
In Canada, the provincial regulations governing the commercial vehicles, motor carriers and drivers are based on NSC audits. NSC which is the National safety code has the 16 standards involved. This regulation is structured to create a code that shows the minimum performance standard for the safe operation of passengers and the commercial vehicles like trucks.
NSC focuses on three main components
- Drivers
- Vehciles
- Motor Carriers
The NSC standards are distributed between these above-said components. Let’s have a look on those standards NSC is a set of minimum performance standards which are made of the following:
Standard 1 # Single Driver License Concept
Standard 2 # Knowledge and Performance Tests
Standard 3 # Driver Examiner Training Program
Standard 4 # Driving Licensing Classification
Standard 5 # Self-Certification Standards & Procedures
Standard 6 # Determining Driver Fitness in Canada
Standard 7 # Carrier & Driver Profiles
Standard 8 # Short-term Suspension
Standard 9 # Drivers Hours of Service
Standard 10 # Cargo Securement
Standard 11 # Maintenance & Periodic Inspection
Standard 12 # CVSA On-Road Inspection
Standard 13 # Trip Inspection
Standard 14 # Safety Rating
Standard 15 # Facility Audits
Standard 16 # Entry Level Training ( Class 1)
Now that we have elaborated our understanding of different standards in NSC Audits, we would have a look at the NSC audit checklist, so let’s dwell on the following:
Important Documentation
The first thing that the company would need is the necessary docs. This can include driver records, vehicle inspection reports, maintenance logs and so on. These essentials are important to conduct a smooth NSC audit.
Driver Qualification Essentials
Another primary condition is to have proper driver qualification proofs. Such as having the necessary training credentials, commercial driver’s license ( CDLs ), driving records free from violations, and also safety & compliance course details and certifications if done.
Vehicle Inspection Reports & Maintenance Logs
The NSC Audit scrutinizes the inspection reports and also the maintenance logs. So, keep up the maintenance and always keep the records updated for your ongoing efforts to keep your commercial fleet in top condition.
Hours Of Service Compliance Details
Keep your positive history of hours you have worked as per the limits designated by government authorities with you. This is also required for an NSC audit.
Trucking Company’s Robust Safety Policies Details
One of the most important aspects of compliance is creating and implementing strong safety policies. Make sure you enlist the safety policies of your trucking company for anti-harassment, drug and alcohol testing, and other safety-related procedures.
Proofs of Internal Audits
Before the external NSC audits by the government, it is also important to carry on the internal fleet audits as well. This puts a good impression on the regularities and also makes your business successful. Keep the proof of internal audits with you during the NSC Audit.
In Conclusion
So, this was all about the NSC audit, and how the processes are carried out to its detailed checklist. NSC audits are designed so that all the trucking functions can be conducted safely, even cross-borders.
If you also want to know more about NSC audits or want to avail reliable trucking services, then you can contact Pioneer Trucking Solutions in Calgary, your one-stop destination for all trucking solutions.