In this training session, ATS employees participated in a hands-on course designed to give them a glimpse into the daily challenges drivers face. Led by JP from the safety department, the course covered essential maneuvers, including backing up and making precise turns. This experience emphasized the complexity of safely maneuvering a semi-truck and highlighted the skills required to tackle day-to-day tasks.
Backing Up
The session began with Rob, an ATS employee, attempting a backing maneuver—a sight-side back commonly used by drivers. JP explained that effective backing isn’t about speed but about accuracy and caution. Rob quickly experienced the challenge of maneuvering a 53-foot trailer into a tight space, similar to the conditions drivers encounter at shippers, receivers, and truck stops.
Turning Techniques: Jug Handle vs. Button Hook
Next, Rob practiced two common right-turn techniques: the button hook (proper method) and the jug handle (improper). The button hook requires swinging into the oncoming lane to safely complete the turn, while the jug handle involves swinging left before the turn, which can confuse or endanger nearby motorists. This exercise highlighted the importance of using the correct technique, as improper turns can easily lead to accidents.
Bridging the Gap Between Drivers and Support Staff
The course gave ATS employees invaluable insight into the challenges of truck driving. This experience equips them to better understand the realities drivers face and offer more empathetic and effective support. The session highlighted the importance of clear communication, especially when advising on safer routes or discussing situations that require precise maneuvers, like U-turns, which are best avoided on narrow roads.
The session left ATS employees with a newfound respect for the skills and attention to detail that safe truck driving requires. With this practical understanding of the complexities of the road, ATS staff are better positioned to support drivers in overcoming the challenges they face every day. This training was a significant step in strengthening the connection between ATS support teams and the drivers they serve.
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