Let NASTC Review Your Company’s CSA Scores
In December of 2010, the FMCSA introduced their “data-driven safety compliance and enforcement program” Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) to increase auditors’ exposure to at-risk carriers. The CSA data is used to more quickly determine which carriers are in need of intervention. The goal of this is to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
The CSA “score” is actually a rating made up of a company’s violations over the past two years. Over 700 possible violations are then categorized among seven BASIC areas. If a carrier has a percentile ranking of 70% that means that their score is 70% worse than similar carriers in their peer group. When rankings are around 80% or more, the DOT will usually put an intervention program in place.
It is imperative that motor carriers review their safety ratings and information found on the CSA website. Not paying attention to this public data can cost you money in lost customers, increased insurance premiums, and not being able to attract quality drivers. Lower CSA numbers make you subject to fewer audits and roadside inspections. They can also give you a competitive advantage with shippers and insurance providers. Shippers use the data to hire carriers with excellent safety ratings. Insurance companies use the site to determine underwriting and premium prices. CSA scores that are lower than industry averages mean big savings and priority pricing when it’s time for renewal. Likewise, a ranking that surpasses the recommended threshold can increase premiums by as much as 50%.
Implementing simple procedures can have a huge impact on your CSA rankings and your bottom line. Start with verifying the inspection details, making yourself aware of potential audit issues. Always pull potential drivers’ Pre-Employment Screening Program (PSP) records for indicators of future behavior. Maintain vehicles with a defined PM program and DVIR strategies (some of the top violations cited are defective reflective devices, nonworking lights & turn signals, brake leaks, and discharged/unsecure fire extinguishers). Create a culture that prevents dispatching outside of hours of service parameters. Lastly, incorporate rewards for excellent performance.
NASTC offers an overview service of your CSA/SMS scores, status of Registration & Authority, and DOT’s required filings including MCS-150, Insurance, and Agents for Process. We can provide excellent analysis of where the FMCSA believes your safety performance levels to be, as well as whether to expect an upcoming visit by an auditor. Forewarned is forearmed. If you would like a review of your company’s CSA status, please call or email Angel.
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