Great Britain recently suffered another terrorist attack initiated with a truck used as a “ramming tool” to kill and/or injure innocent bystanders. In part one we discussed how trucking organizations can identify inside and outside warning signals to stop terrorists from acquiring a truck to use as a tool for terror. However, sometimes this is not enough to stop incidents from happening.

It is imperative that trucking companies plan for possible hijacking scenarios by training personnel to follow safety protocols and prohibited behaviors when en route.

Organizational Policies

The time to act is now in order to prevent a truck in your fleet from being used for terror. First accept that this is a reality in our world today, then do something about it. Start by assuming that it can happen to your organization anytime. Next, formalize sound policy to prevent a hijacking scenario with one of the trucks in your fleet.

The best policy when it comes to terrorism is “zero tolerance”. This should be the underlying principle when establishing protocols for employees and specifically for drivers. In order to prevent hijacking, make sure to establish:

• Increased use of high-quality seals and padlocks
• A “no stop” policy for drivers when possible, especially within 2-3 hours of the trip origin
• Tracking and communication protocols en route

Once the organization is well versed in an overall policy for hijacking prevention, make sure the drivers are trained to follow preventative procedures to ensure they never lose control of the truck in their possession.

Driver Training

Once the truck has left the rest of the fleet behind and is en route to a destination, the driver must be trained how to prevent hijacking. In most cases it is a matter of common sense (i.e. don’t pick up hitchhikers, lock the vehicle during stops), however, there are additional considerations to note and follow to ensure an outside party never controls the vehicle.

• Keep the dispatcher informed of any route changes
• In slow moving traffic, lock the cab and roll up the windows
• Check the load when possible to make sure that what is in the vehicle is supposed to be there
• Avoid stopping at the same places every trip
• Watch for suspicious vehicles at the pick up point, or cars or vans that follow your vehicle
• When making a delivery, do not leave cargo unattended, even for a minute or two
• Carry a 24-hour emergency telephone
• Keep the vehicle, license plate and VIN number with you at all times; they will be critical if the vehicle is stolen or hijacked

Overall, make sure the organization is vigilant and unwavering in regard to safety protocols. Be aware and ready in case a truck in your fleet is targeted for use in an act of terrorism. Not only will it be detrimental to the livelihood of your organization, but lives depend upon it.

Photo Credit: The Sun

SACS Can Train Your Organization to Prevent Trucking Terrorism

Do not become an unknowing participant in trucking terrorism.  SACS Consulting & Investigative Services, Inc. can help your organization prevent trucking terrorism with our Recognizing, Prevention & Response To Trucking and Terrorism training. Call us at 330-255-1101 to speak with one of our training specialists today.