OTA Dispatch Issue 3

35 www.ortrucking.org Issue 3 | 2018 “We’ve been a member with OTA since 2007, and based on Tim’s experience working with the association he finds that the training provided by OTA is always very informative, reliable, and helpful to the industry. When we found out we would be audited by ODOT, we wanted to make sure we were on the right path so we called on OTA. The staff members were easy-going, laid-back, and made us feel comfortable. They sent us some preliminary information on what they’d be looking for so we could compile materials and paperwork before the in-person mock audit. The services we received were exactly what we needed, and OTA exceeded our expectations. John and Adam came on-site, and the process was not at all stressful. With their help, we passed the audit! I highly recommend that others join OTA as a member and reach out for their auditing services. They are a wonderful resource!” –Heather Hamilton, Dispatcher, Cascade Transport Did you know that OTA offers mock safety audit services? Don’t just take our word for it! Here’s what some of our members had to say: “We became members with OTA about ten years ago because we needed consultative services, and have worked with the association ever since. We’ve had several audits over the last few years, some on a larger scale— like our last compliance review. When our rating changed from satisfactory to conditional, OTA helped navigate us through the process. They told us what was missing, what we would need (and wouldn’t need) to prepare and what order information should be presented to the DOT inspector. They helped us with knowledge of hours of service (HOS) rules and helped tighten our paperwork, such as our driver qualification files, to make sure it was up to date and in proper the format. We had some miscommunication issues and some of our shipping papers had caused a critical violation due to minor wording errors. They helped us make corrections and worked with the DOT inspector as a liaison to resolve the problem. With OTA’s help, we were able to get ready in a timely manner and give inspectors exactly what they needed, presented in the way they want it. OTA’s other services, like HAZMAT awareness training and overall consultation, help us stay current and prevent issues on an ongoing basis. They are quick to respond (even with last-minute questions), knowledgeable, and either provide us with the answers we need or direct us to the right people. OTA is a good asset to us! We see a lot of value from the association, and with all the benefits we get, we’ll always be a member with OTA.” –Shell Sheldon, Owner, Sheldon Oil