Why?

Hello there everyone. Can anyone answer me as to why so many companies are requiring prospective drivers to be able to climb into a trailer from the ground...and has anyone ever actually had to do so?

My friend is only 5' tall with an inseam of 28" and is having trouble getting past this requirement. She is considering perusing legal recourse.

Thanks

 

Because it is a physical requirement to pass the DOT physical. If your friend cant do it then your friend cant do the job. Have fun suing the DOT for setting the physical requirements.
The reason for being required to do this is so you can get into the trailer for securing loads, sanitation, and basic maintenance. If you cant climb into your trailer to properly secure a load then you legally cant do the job.

 

It is NOT a DOT requirement. I have contacted the DOT and they allow the use of any "step" or "ladder" that is rated safe for your body weight for use to get into the back of a trailer.

 

Then tell your friend to buy a ladder!

 

She has a step stool but the companies she has talked to will not allow her to use it. Hence my question here on the forum.

 

Got a link for that? I mean a link somewhere that confirms it is a DOT and not a company requirement?

 

You should know by now that many large trucking companies are generally staffed by idiots. Especially, it seems, in safety departments. She should ask them why they do not allow the use of an aid when that is what the DOT recommends.

As to whether anybody ever has to do this? Yes, many times per day sometimes.

An alternative would be for her to seek out companies where it almost exclusively drop & hook.

 

What companies is she talking to? Telll her to use the icc bar

 

Medical Examination Report
FOR COMMERCIAL DRIVER FITNESS DETERMINATION
form: 649-F (6045)

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/documents/forms/649f.pdf

She has passed the DOT Physical at companies 3 times this year but can not climb into the back of a trailer from the ground.

I have also spoken with 2 Doctors who perform DOT Physicals and she does pass and qualify the physical requirements as directed by the DOT.

 

No sorry I always thought it was, if it isnt...O well. If the company sets their own standards and make it a requirement and you cant do it then you dont get the job they are well within their legal rights and there isnt much you can do about it.