Navigating Risk is Tricky Business!

The Paladin Group strives to supply clients with the knowledge and coverage they need to keep their business protected, insured and thriving. Our experienced team is ready to answer any questions you have about risk management. Each week our Safety Consultant Channing Puls provides safety solution tips and blogs that are helpful in the trucking industry.

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CHANNING PULS
Safety Consultant

PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE:

Safety, Compliance, Risk Management, Supply Chain Management, Loss Control/Prevention, Transportation Technology

Channing’s career in the trucking industry has provided in-depth experience and success in managing motor carrier safety programs. He has experience as a recruiter, fleet manager, and as an operations manager where he supervised Safety, Risk Management, and Compliance. His understanding of the industry brings a versatile and experienced perspective as a Safety Consultant at The Paladin Group.

Channing has been an integral part of successful trucking companies through implementation of safety and compliance best practices. He is passionate about partnering with clients developing fresh ideas that provides solutions for a variety of challenges to achieve high end results.

Fuel Efficiency

April 28th, 2023 by Channing Puls
Fuel efficiency is a crucial aspect of the trucking industry. It not only helps reduce operational costs but also minimizes the environmental impact of commercial semi-trucks. Below are some of the latest advancements in fuel efficiency for commercial trucks and how they can benefit your business. Investing in aerodynamic upgrades to your trucks can greatly…
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Interstate vs. Intrastate Commerce

April 14th, 2023 by Channing Puls
It is important to be aware of the differences between interstate and intrastate commerce. The Department of Transportation (DOT) uses the terms to determine which regulations to apply to different transportation activities because the regulations vary between activities. Federal and state courts have dealt with the question of what differentiates interstate from intrastate commerce, especially…
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Substance Abuse Testing

April 7th, 2023 by Channing Puls
The safety of our roads is a top priority for the transportation industry. There are over 3.5 million commercial drivers in the United States alone. It is crucial to take every measure possible to prevent accidents and protect the lives of those on the road. One way to do so is by substance abuse testing…
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Driver Qualifications

March 31st, 2023 by Channing Puls
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has established regulations for driver qualifications to ensure the safety of commercial motor vehicle operations. Below are a few of the key requirements for driver qualification: 1. Age: A driver must be at least 21 years of age to operate a commercial motor vehicle across state lines or…
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Roadside Inspections

March 24th, 2023 by Channing Puls
Roadside inspections were put into place to ensure the safety of all drivers and the general public. It is important to note that inspections are not just a matter of compliance, but also a matter of safety. It is crucial to conduct daily inspections to avoid potential failures during an inspection. An out-of-service order can…
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Cannabis Usage in Trucking

March 17th, 2023 by Channing Puls
Positive cannabis tests for truck drivers have increased at an alarming rate over the past year. In 2022, nearly 41,000 truck drivers tested positive for cannabis according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Even though many states have legalized cannabis usage, it is still illegal to drive while under the influence. Federal regulations…
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Situational Awareness

March 10th, 2023 by Channing Puls
Situational awareness is crucial for commercial motor vehicle drivers as it can help a driver anticipate and react to potential hazards on the road, thereby reducing the risk of a crash or other incidents. It is important for drivers to “keep their head on a swivel”. While on the road, it is important to be…
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Daily Fluid Checks

March 3rd, 2023 by Channing Puls
Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operators need to check their fluids daily on a level surface to ensure their vehicle is in safe operating condition. The six fluids that need to be checked are: 1. Engine Oil: A driver must check the engine oil level and condition regularly. The engine oil dipstick is usually easily identified…
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Frame Inspections

February 24th, 2023 by Channing Puls
Did you know that commercial motor vehicle (CMV) frame inspections are an important part of regular vehicular maintenance? Inspecting the frame can help identify cracks, rust and other damage that could compromise the safety and integrity of the vehicle. Below are a few things to look for while inspecting a vehicle’s frame. 1. Cracks: When…
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Don’t DataQ Your Way to Safety: Engage These 6 Best Practices Instead

September 30th, 2022 by Channing Puls
Being proactive when it comes to safety will help keep FMCSA scores at bay. But, when you need to challenge a violation with a DataQ, it’s crucial for motor carriers to keep these best practices in mind. DataQs are widely used to lower safety scores. But disputing safety violations as a key technique to keeping…
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