Pro Distribution Services has won the Private Motor Truck Council of Canada (PMTC)/Zurich Private Fleet Safety Award in the Small Fleet Category for the fifth time in the past 12 years, according to Truck News. Huron Services Group/TONA Transport won the prize for large carriers. 

All Canadian private carriers are eligible for the awards, which were given out during the PMTC's annual awards luncheon June 19. 

Pro Distribution Services, which delivers weekly flyers to various newspapers, operates with a fleet of six power units and 13 trailers. The company traveled nearly 100,000 kilometers without a violation. Pro Distribution uses a written safety and driver policy that outlines the responsibilities of drivers and management. The company, which has operated a private fleet for 26 years, attributes much of its success to low driver turnover. That is helped by the fact that every one of its drivers has been with the company for at least nine years. 

Huron Services Group/TONA Transport operates 42 power units and 200 trailers running in Canada and the United States. The fleet hauls hazardous materials as well as non-HazMat freight. Equipment includes dry vans, tankers, container chassis and reefers. Over the past three years, the fleet has run more than 24.6 million kilometers. 

The company's strong safety record can be attributed to a strict hiring protocol of complete background checks, drug and alcohol testing, and a pre-employment medical. Candidates must then undergo complete written and road tests along with a two-day orientation on company policies and procedures. Drivers must also attend quarterly safety meetings and individual training.  

The entrants for the awards are judged by an independent panel following established safety criteria and considering the fleet's overall safety regime and over-the-road record.