Safety and Loss Control Manual
Vehicle Safety
General Vehicle Safety
When operating a State vehicle it is important that
the following guidelines be observed:
For further information on operating a State Fleet vehicle,
see the State Fleet Services Policy Manual.
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Accidents are caused by unsafe actions of the driver, unsafe vehicle conditions, unsafe environmental conditions, or a combination of the three.
Vehicle accidents must always be investigated by the proper authorities. In most cases, the Highway Patrol should be the primary investigating authority. However, local sheriff’s or police departments may be notified depending on the location of the accident.
All accidents involving leased or State Fleet vehicles, regardless of damage amount, must be reported within 24 hours to the UND Transportation Department. The driver of the vehicle is responsible for completing the Risk Management Fund Motor Vehicle Accident Report, SF # 51301. Also, a UND Incident Report Form and a UND Incident Investigation Form (completed by the supervisor) must be submitted to the UND Transportation Dept. All UND forms can be retrieved from this web site: www.transportation.und.edu. The three forms must be dropped of at 3925 Campus Road within 24 hours or faxed to 777-4955. UND Transportation will file the claim on-line with the Risk Management Division.
Read the instructions on the “Risk Management Fund Motor Vehicle Accident Report” before completing. All spaces must be filled out. If one space does not pertain to the accident, write N/A in the appropriate space. Parked vehicles involved in an accident need only indicate “parked” in the “DRIVER” space. All other information must be completed.
Departments that lease vehicles must additionally notify the dealer within 24 hours of an accident. This is done so that a timely estimate of the damages can be made.
To comply with state requirements, the University has an Accident Review Committee and all accidents involving leased and State Fleet vehicles are reviewed by this committee. They determine if the accident was preventable or non preventable, and make recommendations to the driver accordingly. A report listing name of driver, accident date, and the Accident Review Committee’s recommendations is submitted to the State Accident Review Board. The Board will notify the University committee if they approve of their recommendations. If approved, a letter is sent to the driver and supervisor stating what the recommendations are.
Questions regarding accidents and any other motor vehicle issues should be directed to UND Transportation, 777-4122.
Accidents and traffic violations warrant increased training per ND State Fleet requirements. Any vehicle operator involved in an accident or receiving a traffic citation must demonstrate completion of a Defensive Driving Course within a year. The Safety and Environmental Health Office can provide employee training frequency information to supervisors upon request.
To register for the free Defensive Driving Course, call 777-2128.
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1. Shut off vehicle before fueling.
2. Do not smoke while fueling vehicle.
3. Do not leave pump unattended.
In the event of a small fuel/oil spill (5 gallons or less) at UND Transportation, use floor dry or the spill clean-up supplies located in the drum labeled "Spill Kit" to absorb the liquid.
For larger spills, contact the Safety and Environmental Health Office at 777-3341 (day) or 777-3491 (night).
When using heavy equipment, there are some basic guidelines that need to be followed to ensure safety:
Utilize safety features and heed the manufacturer's warnings:
Be aware of area and terrain:
Ensure the following before leaving equipment unattended:
Do not attempt to lubricate or adjust a running engine.
Turn the engine off before refueling.
Check the work area for underground utilities and overhead power lines prior to beginning work.
Refer to the product documentation that accompanied your equipment
for more information and specific instructions. If you have any
questions, contact the Safety and Environmental Health Office at 777-3341.
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The University of North Dakota strives to provide a safe and healthy environment for its students, faculty, staff and visitors. In an effort to protect both persons and UND property, this policy provides safe operating rules for users of skateboards, bicycles, roller skates, in-line skates, or other non-motorized vehicles.
Operating in Pedestrian Area
When operating in pedestrian areas, always be aware of your immediate surroundings and operate at speeds that are reasonable under the existing conditions. Maintain control of your vehicle(s) at all times. Reckless operation with the potential for endangering either persons or property is not permitted.
Always yield the right of way to pedestrians and when it is necessary to pass them in either direction, 6 feet of separation should be maintained to prevent collisions. If you are unable to maintain 6 feet without leaving the walkway, slow to a speed just above the average walking pace while passing.
Note: A pedestrian area is any walkway, sidewalk, crosswalk, plaza court yard, patio, play court, parking facility, loading zone, or any other University facility that is intended primarily or partially for use by pedestrians.
Violations of this policy by a guest of the University may result in a demand to the violator by UND Police or an appropriate UND official to leave University property. Violation by an employee or student of the University may result in disciplinary action.
Operating on Public Streets
If you operate on public streets, please do so in accordance with all North Dakota and City of Grand Forks traffic laws. Road safety and efficient movement occur when all road users follow the same traffic laws.
Prohibited Areas for Use and Storage
UND prohibits the use of non-motorized vehicles inside University buildings, or on any pedestrian ramps, loading docks and rails. Exemption: This does not apply to transportation for persons with disabilities (e.g. wheelchairs).Additional areas of campus may be signed in such a way as to prohibit the use of any non-motorized vehicle in that particular area. Always be sure to adhere to such signs.
Never park or store any non-motorized vehicle in such a manner as to block an entrance or exit to a building. Additionally, never park, store, or leave non-motorized vehicles standing in stairwells, hallways, or any other locations that violate federal, state, or local fire and safety regulations. UND prohibits the storage of bicycles and other personal property in University buildings.
Exception: Bicycles/personal property may be stored in University apartments/resident hall rooms.
Non-motorized Vehicles cannot be used or stored in such a manner that could cause damage to University property. For example, securing bikes to signs, trees or items other than bike storage racks.
Non-motorized Vehicles stored in a manner non-compliant with this procedure are subject to impound by the University Police.
Responsibility of Operators
At the University of North Dakota, never use a non-motorized vehicle in a manner which presents a risk of injury or damage to University property.When using a State Vehicle during winter weather, a survival kit may be requested from the Transportation Department. In addition to a winter weather kit, cellular phones are highly recommended during winter travel.
If you are stranded in severe winter weather, always stay with
your vehicle until help arrives.
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