Why Are Managers So Relaxed on Enforcing Workplace Rules and Regulations?

By Tom Holden

The transportation industry faces numerous regulations aimed at ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance—particularly when buses are involved. However, enforcing these rules and regulations consistently can be challenging for several reasons. I’ll site some of the main factors that contribute to a more relaxed approach then offer remedies to help fix them:

1. Economic Pressures
Bus companies operate on tight budgets. Owners and managers regularly deal with intense economic pressures to keep costs low and productivity high. The urgency to meet service schedules, manage operational costs, and maintain fleet operations can lead to prioritizing immediate financial concerns over strict regulatory compliance.

2. Workforce Shortages
As most operators are aware, the transportation industry, including bus companies, is experiencing a significant driver shortage, which makes it difficult for companies to enforce strict regulations without risking further loss of drivers. Relaxing enforcement can be a tactic to retain drivers who might otherwise leave for less stringent employers.

3. Complex Regulatory Landscape
The regulations governing the transportation industry are numerous and complex. Keeping up with the constantly evolving rules from entities like the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) can be overwhelming. Smaller companies, in particular, may lack the resources to stay fully informed and compliant, leading to inadvertent lapses in enforcement.

4. Lack of Awareness and Training
Many owners and managers may not be fully aware of all the regulatory requirements or the best practices for enforcing them. This lack of awareness can stem from insufficient training or inadequate communication within the company. Without a clear understanding of the regulations, consistent enforcement becomes challenging.

5. Cultural Factors
Company culture plays a significant role in how regulations are perceived and enforced. If a company has historically been lax on enforcement, changing that culture requires time, effort, and a shift in mindset. Employees may resist stricter enforcement if it contrasts sharply with the established norms.

6. Balancing Safety and Productivity
Owners and managers often struggle to balance safety with productivity. While safety is paramount, the pressure to meet schedules and passenger expectations can sometimes overshadow regulatory compliance. This balancing act can lead to a more lenient approach to rule enforcement, particularly under tight schedules.

7. Compliance Fatigue
Regulatory fatigue can set in, especially for companies that have been operating for many years. Constantly adapting to new regulations and maintaining rigorous compliance can be exhausting, leading to a more relaxed attitude over time. This fatigue can result in complacency and a lower priority for rule enforcement.

TACKLING THE ISSUES
You know the problems exist, so what can be done to have a more compliant organization? Here are some of the best practices that can help.

❱ Education and training: Invest in regular training sessions to keep owners, managers, and employees informed about current regulations and best practices.
❱ Hire compliance officers: Appoint dedicated compliance officers or teams responsible for monitoring and enforcing regulations within the company.
❱ Work with a third-party compliance company: Find a third-party safety and compliance company that has up-to-date digital storage and tracking software that meets the federal guidelines.
❱ Improve communication: Foster an open communication culture where safety and compliance are regularly discussed and prioritized.
❱ Leverage technology: Use technology to streamline compliance processes, such as electronic logging devices (ELDs) and compliance management software.
❱ Cultivate a safety-first culture: Promote a culture where safety and compliance are valued as much as productivity and efficiency.

By addressing these factors, bus companies can create a more balanced approach that prioritizes safety and regulatory compliance without sacrificing operational efficiency.   [CD0425]