Observation of Driving Practices
To enforce a high standard of professional driving performance, you must complete PS Form 4584, Observation of Driving Practices, or PS Form 4584T, Observation of Driving Practices (Trucks), for each driver under your supervision at regular intervals.
You must familiarize yourself with defensive driving techniques so that you know what the common driving errors are, how they can be detected, and how they can be prevented.
Management is responsible for ensuring that drivers not only follow all motor vehicle safety guidelines but are also recognized for their commitment to safe driving and overall performance. This includes but is not limited to the following:
n Postal Service drivers must wear seat belts when their vehicles are in motion.
n Driver must conduct pre-trip vehicle inspections using Notice 76, Expanded Vehicle Safety Check, or Notice 76-T, Safety Checklist for Tractor Trailer Operators (TTOs) and Motor Vehicle Service Operators (MVOs). Use PS Form 4565, Vehicle Repair Tag, to report all mechanical defects, failures, and vehicle damage.
n Promote awareness of potential road hazards, such as construction zones, debris, wildlife, blind corners, sharp turns, and narrow or crowded streets.
n Promote awareness of potential route hazards, such as low bridges and overpasses, railroad crossings, tight parking spaces, and loading docks.
n Postal Service drivers must always be mindful of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists.
n Provide regular weather updates to drivers and remind drivers to adjust driving speeds and techniques based on road conditions, including rain, snow, or fog.
n Recognize drivers for safe driving and overall performance.
