STANDARDS OF CONDUCT. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. is committed to conducting its business affairs with honesty and integrity. The commitment applies to relationships with customers, vendors, and employees. These rules, practices and policies concerning conduct and behavior (“Standards”) are instrumental to our continued success, and yours, at the Company.

Whenever people gather to achieve goals, some rules of conduct are needed to ensure everyone works together efficiently, effectively, and harmoniously. By accepting employment with us, you have a responsibility to AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. and your fellow employees to adhere to certain rules of behavior and conduct. The purpose of these rules is not to restrict your rights but make certain you understand what conduct is expected and necessary. When employees are aware of these rules, they can depend upon co-workers to follow the rules of conduct. This makes the Company a better place to work for everyone.

 

WAGE & SALARY POLICIES. It is our desire to pay wages and salaries competitive with other employers in the marketplace and be fair, and equitable; variable with individual and Company performance; and in compliance with all applicable statutory requirements.

A compensation package consists of two parts – direct compensation (taxable wage or salary) and indirect compensation (benefits). All compensation adjustments must be recommended by the employee's manager and approved by the Company.

​

DEDUCTIONS FROM PAYCHECK (MANDATORY). AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc., like all employers, is required by law to make certain deductions from your paycheck. Among these are income taxes, and your contribution to Social Security and Medicare. Changes in name, address, telephone number, marital status, or number of exemptions must be reported to the Company immediately, to ensure proper credit for tax purposes. Any other mandatory deductions made from your paycheck, such as court-ordered attachments, will be explained whenever the Company is ordered to make such deductions.

​

DEDUCTIONS FROM PAYCHECK (OTHER). Employees enrolled in AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. benefit plan(s) will have the amount detailed in the plan(s) for premiums deducted from their pay each payday (See Plan description(s) for details).

 

ERROR IN PAY. Every effort is made to avoid errors in your paycheck. If you believe an error has been made, please contact your manager immediately. Your manager will take steps to research the problem and ensure necessary corrections are made by the next pay period.

 

OVERTIME PAY. Employees that are paid based on commission and performance are not subject to overtime pay.

For employees that are paid based on an hourly salary, your manager must approve all overtime in advance and initial your time sheet. When it is necessary to work overtime, you are expected to cooperate as a condition of your employment. There are two types of overtime work:

 

• Scheduled Overtime: Scheduled overtime work is announced in advance. This type of overtime becomes part of the required workweek. If you need to be excused from performing scheduled overtime, please speak with your manager. He/she will consider your situation and the requirements of the department or operation when deciding whether or not you may be excused from performing the scheduled overtime.

 

• Incidental Overtime: Incidental overtime is not scheduled but becomes necessary in response to extenuating circumstances. Incidental overtime may become necessary when an illness or emergency keeps co-workers from being at work, as anticipated. The opportunity to perform incidental overtime is normally given first to employees who usually perform the task. If that employee cannot perform overtime, the manager will offer overtime to a suitably qualified person available to perform overtime.

 

Overtime is paid for more than 40 hours worked within a seven-day period. Should an employee take a vacation day, a personal/sick day during a workweek, or when a paid holiday falls in a workweek, those day(s) do not count as part of the 40 hours worked for the purpose of determining overtime hours. As compensation for overtime worked, overtime hours worked are paid at the rate of one and one-half times the employee’s regular hourly rate.

​

WORK PERFORMED ON HOLIDAYS. Employees that are paid based on commission, performance and work on a holiday are not subject to overtime pay.

Employees who work on a holiday are deemed to have worked overtime on that day and will be paid at one and one-half times their normal rate for hours worked regardless of the number of hours they worked that week. Any holiday work MUST be approved in writing by your manager prior to the holiday.

​

PAY CYCLE. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. pays based upon work performed during the weekly cycle of Sunday 12:01

a.m. through Saturday 12:00 midnight. Payday is normally on Friday afternoon for services performed for the one-week period ending the previous Saturday at 12:00 midnight.

​

PAYCHECK DISTRIBUTION & CASHING PROCEDURES. If an employee is not enrolled in Direct Deposit then all Paychecks/stubs are distributed directly to employees on payday. Paychecks will NOT be mailed unless prior arrangement has been made. If you are absent on payday, you may have someone pick up your check on payday by authorizing a specific individual in writing to do so. This person must sign for the check and provide picture identification such as a driver’s license for identity verification.

A regular employee who may be home for a week or two on a rotating shift, vacation, leave, etc., should call the office on Monday to make arrangements to pick up his/her paycheck. Employee paychecks may not be cashed at AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. It is Company policy not to cash an employee’s paycheck.

​

DUPLICATE PAYCHECKS. Employees requesting duplicate paychecks to be issued for lost or stolen paychecks will be charged the current “Stop-Pay” fee as charged by the bank. This fee must be paid to AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. before the duplicate check is issued or it will be deducted from the duplicate check.

​

PAYROLL ADVANCES AND PERSONAL LOANS. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. does not offer payroll advances and/or personal loans to employees.

 

PERFORMANCE. Employees are expected to provide good customer service, keep Company equipment well- maintained and in good working condition, maintain a neat and clean work area, be effective “salespeople” of all Company services and be productive during all working hours.

Errors can and will be eliminated by conscientious efforts on the part of everyone to always do his/her best. Employees who fail to comply with these requirements in this respect and within reason will be subject to disciplinary actions.

 

Each employee is responsible for ensuring his/her work area is kept clean and neat. Waste cans are provided, and all trash is to be placed in the appropriate container. Housekeeping is a reflection on every employee and each employee is expected to do his/her part to reflect an image of quality and neatness to other employees and customers.

​

PERFORMANCE REVIEWS. Your manager is continuously evaluating your job performance. Day-to-day interaction between you and your manager should give you a sense of how your manager perceives your performance. However, to avoid any misconceptions, AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. will generally conduct a formal review once each year. Additional evaluations may be conducted at any time at the discretion of your manager.

 

All employees are normally reviewed during these review periods regardless of anniversary dates. We endeavor to review new employees at least once during their 60-day introductory period. A review may also be conducted in the event of a promotion or change in duties and responsibilities or at the request of any manager.

 

During performance evaluations, managers consider the following things, among others:

• Attendance, initiative, and effort

• Knowledge of your work

• Attitude and willingness to work.

• Quality and quantity of your work

• Work habits

• Adherence to the policies in the Company Employee Handbook and the duties and responsibilities stated in their job description.

• A record of safely performing work without injury to oneself, fellow workers other people or damage to property.

 

The primary reason for performance reviews (evaluations) is to identify your strengths and areas of improvement, to reinforce your good habits and to develop ways for you to improve. This review also serves to make you aware of and to document how your job performance compares to AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc.’s goals and the description of your position. This is a good time to discuss your interests and future goals. Your manager is interested in helping you progress and grow to achieve personal and work-related goals.

 

In addition to individual job performance reviews, the Company normally conducts a review of position descriptions to ensure awareness of any changes in duties and responsibilities of each position.

​

WORK SCHEDULE. The normal work week consists of five (5) days, Monday through Friday with Saturday being required upon dispatch needs. Your daily work hours and route will be sent to you the evening before via phone or text from your dispatch coordinator (exceptions may apply). You will be notified promptly whenever a change is necessary. Should you have any questions concerning your work schedule, please ask your manager.

 

From time to time, it may be necessary for you to be absent from work. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. is aware that emergencies, illnesses, or pressing personal business that cannot be scheduled outside your work hours may arise.

 

If you are unable to report to work or if you arrive late, please contact your manager immediately. Give him or her as much time as possible to arrange for someone else to cover your position until you arrive. If you know in advance that you will need to be absent, you are required to request this time off directly from your manager.

 

When you call in to inform AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. of an unexpected absence or late arrival, ask your manager directly. For late arrivals, please indicate when you expect to arrive for work. Notifying the receptionist or a fellow employee is not sufficient. If you are unable to call in yourself because of an illness, emergency or for some other reason, be sure to have someone call on your behalf. If your manager is not available when you call, you may leave the information with another manager.

 

Absence from work for three (3) consecutive days without notifying your manager will be considered a voluntary resignation.

​

BREAK/REST PERIODS. For employees that are paid base on commission, and performance, it’s up to the employee to consider rest breaks.

You are entitled to two 15-minute rest breaks each day. Normally these rest breaks will be scheduled in mid-morning and mid-afternoon. These will be determined by your manager. If you work in a department where breaks are not directly assigned, please coordinate with your manager to always maintain adequate coverage. Always be sure to return to work on time at the end of any break.

In the unlikely event of an emergency or unusual condition, your manager may ask you to change or postpone your break.

​

LACTATION BREAKS. For employees that are paid based on commission, and performance it’s up to the employee to consider the appropriate time and place to express breast milk for the employee’s infant child.

The Company will provide a reasonable amount of break time to accommodate a female employee’s need to express breast milk for the employee’s infant child. If possible, the break time should be taken concurrently with other break periods already provided. If this time does not run concurrently with normally scheduled rest periods, employees should clock out for this time and such time will be unpaid. The Company will also make a reasonable effort to provide the employee with the use of a room, or other location near the employee’s work area, for the employee to express milk in private. Employees should notify their immediate supervisor if they are requesting time to express breast milk under this policy.

​

LUNCH PERIOD. If an employee is paid based on commission and performance, it’s up to the employee to consider the appropriate time and place for the lunch period.

If you work longer than four (4) hours, you will be given an unpaid lunch period. The time when lunch periods are scheduled varies among departments, depending on the needs of each department. Your manager will give you your lunch period schedule.

You are expected to take your full allotted time for lunch. You are requested not to perform any work during your regularly scheduled lunch period, unless specifically requested to do so by your manager. In that event, your lunch will be rescheduled, or you will be paid for the time that you worked. You may leave the premises during your lunch period; however, you must record your time or clock in and out. It is important to return to work on time at the end of your lunch period.

​

EXCESSIVE ABSENTEEISM OR LATENESS. In general, five (5) unexcused absences in a year will be considered excessive, and the reasons for the absences may come to question. Tardiness or leaving early is as detrimental to AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. as an absence. Three such incidents in a 60- day period is considered a "tardiness pattern" and carry the same weight as an absence. Other factors, like the degree of lateness, may be considered.

 

Excessive absenteeism, lateness or leaving early may lead to disciplinary action, including possible dismissal.

​

BENEFITS. In addition to receiving an equitable salary and having an equal opportunity for professional development and advancement, you may be eligible to enjoy other benefits that will enhance your job satisfaction. We are certain that you will agree that the benefits program described in this Handbook represents a very large investment by AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc.

 

A good benefits program is a solid investment in AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. and its employees. It not only ensures the loyalty of long-time capable employees, but it also helps to attract talented newcomers who can help AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. grow. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. will periodically review the benefits program and will make modifications as appropriate.

 

PAID LEAVES OF ABSENCE.

Funeral (Bereavement) Leave

AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. provides employees with three days off for the Bereavement of an immediate family member (father, mother, spouse, domestic partner, child, brother, or sister). If additional Bereavement leave is needed, a request for the additional paid time beyond three days must be in writing and is at the sole discretion of the Company for approval.

​

HOLIDAYS. All full-time employees are eligible for holiday pay after the Introductory Period. Non- exempt employees are not eligible to receive holiday pay during your Introductory Period of 60 days. Non-exempt Part-time and Temporary employees are eligible for holiday pay at their average daily wage (regular day’s pay) after successfully completing their Introductory Period of 60 days. All personnel must work their full shift the workday before and the work day after a holiday in order to be paid for the holiday. Exceptions to this rule are approved vacation days adjacent to the holiday.

The following paid holidays are recognized by AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. only if the holiday falls on normally scheduled workday:

 

• New Year’s Day (Jan. 1)

• Memorial Day (May)

• July 4th

• Labor Day (Sept.)

• Thanksgiving Day (Nov.)

• Christmas Day (Dec. 25)

​

VACATIONS. Vacation is a time for employees to rest, relax, and pursue personal interests. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. provides a paid vacation as one of the many ways we show our appreciation for your loyalty and continued service.

 

All full-time employees are eligible for paid vacation. You begin to become eligible for vacation from your first day of employment (anniversary date), but you are not qualified to take any paid vacation until you have completed 12 months of continuous employment.

 

Vacation compensation policy is applicable to all full-time employees averaging a minimum of 30 hours per week. Exempt employees will receive their base weekly salary during the week(s) of vacation. Non-exempt employees will receive 40 hours at their current hourly rate of pay.

 

Earned vacation time will be calculated based on date of hire and length of service:

​

Years of Service                                                    Eligible Time                                               Eligible To Take

​

Less Than 1 Year                                                      5 Days                                                            None

​

Year 1 – Year 2                                                         5 Days                                                   5 Days per year after Year 1

​

Year 3 – Year 5                                                         10 Days                                                 10 Days per year after Year 3

​

Year 6                                                                       15 Days                                                 15 Days per year after Year 6

​

After Year 6                                                               15 Days                                                 15 Days per year after Year 6

 

All vacation times are subject to Company approval. The scheduling of vacations is at the discretion of the Company in accordance with the needs of the business. No vacation advances are permitted. If you do not have the time accumulated, your pay will be docked.

Vacation request forms must be completed and submitted to the employee’s immediate

manager at least 14 days prior to the desired vacation start date.

 

 

UNPAID LEAVES OF ABSENCE. Occasionally, for medical, personal, or other reasons, you may need to be temporarily released from the duties of your job with AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. but may not wish to submit your resignation. Under certain circumstances, you may be eligible for an unpaid leave of absence. There are several types of unpaid leave for which you may be eligible.

 

EDUCATIONAL LEAVE OF ABSENCE. An educational leave of absence may be approved if the desired curriculum is of mutual benefit to you and AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. Apply in the same manner as you would for a personal leave of absence.

​

ELECTION DAY. We encourage you to exercise your voting privileges in local, state, and national elections. However, since the polls are open for long periods, you are encouraged to vote before or after regular working hours. If it should be necessary, you may take up to two hours leave from work to vote in a governmental election or referendum. You will be expected to notify your manager at least one week in advance. You will not be paid for such time. Personal leave time, if available, may be used for this purpose.

​

JURY DUTY. It is your civic duty as a citizen to report for jury duty whenever called. If you are called for jury duty, you will be granted the necessary time off. You must present a statement of jury service to the office upon completion of your service. This document is issued by the Court. You must notify your manager within 48 hours of receipt of the jury summons. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. will grant an employee time off for mandatory jury duty. The employee must provide a copy of the jury summons to his or her manager.

 

MILITARY RESERVES LEAVE OF ABSENCE. Employees serving in United States military organizations may take necessary time off, without pay, to fulfill this obligation, and retain all their legal rights for continued employment under existing laws, when they return within the stipulated time frame. Employees may apply accrued vacation time (if any) to the leave if they wish but are not obliged to do so. You are expected to notify your manager as soon as you are aware of the dates you will be on duty, so arrangements can be made for replacement, if necessary, during this absence.

​

PERSONAL LEAVE OF ABSENCE. In very special circumstances, AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. may grant leave for a personal reason, but never for taking employment elsewhere or going into business for yourself. You should request an unpaid personal leave of absence from your manager. A personal leave of absence must not interfere with the operations of your department or AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. Your manager will submit your request to the appropriate member of management for final approval.

 

A personal leave of absence may be granted for up to 30 days. If your leave is extended for more than 30 days, vacation and other benefits will no longer continue to accrue. Consult your group insurance booklet to determine your insurance coverage during a leave of absence. Failure to return from leave at the time agreed will result in termination of employment.

 

INSURANCE COVERAGE. All full-time employees are eligible for group medical insurance. Employees are eligible to sign up for group insurance coverage 60 days after the date of hire, but coverage will not become effective until the following month after becoming eligible. After 60 days, the Company pays 50% of the employee’s entire coverage cost. Should the employee elect to cover dependents, the employee is obligated to pay for the entire dependent coverage cost. For complete information regarding AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. ’s insurance benefit plans, consult your manager.

​

GROUP MEDICAL INSURANCE. In the event of your termination of employment with AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. or loss of eligibility to remain covered under our group health insurance program, you and your eligible dependents may have the right to continued coverage under our health insurance program for a limited period at your or their own expense.

​

FILING A CLAIM. No claim forms are required for this coverage. You use your Identification card supplied by the insurance company.

​

TERMINATION OF INSURANCE. Your insurance policy will terminate when you cease to be eligible for coverage under the terms of our group insurance program, or when you cease to be employed as a regular employee eligible for insurance per the requirements of the federal law known as COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act.) Coverage beyond COBRA is permissible under a separate conversion option within 30 days after termination of COBRA coverage. Please see the insurance plan description for more details. Your manager can provide details concerning your rights and responsibilities under COBRA.

​

INSURANCE PREMIUM PAYMENT DURING LEAVES OF ABSENCE. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. continues to make payments on behalf of the employee; however, the employee is obligated to make full payments, including the normal Company contribution, in order to maintain the coverage. Failure to do so may result in loss of coverage and possible refusal by the insurance carrier to reinstate your coverage.

​

 

MISCELLANEOUS BENEFITS.

​

TRAINING. All full-time and part-time employees may be required to attend training programs or development seminars. Such training will be provided at AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. ’s expense and on Company time. Topics of training may be recommended by the employee’s manager or selected by the employee and approved by the manager.

Courses or programs considered for the fulfillment of this requirement:

• Must be relevant to the employee’s present job or potential promotional opportunities.

• May include job-related training courses offered by vendors, suppliers, or hired consultants for the purpose of learning a new process or operating new equipment.

• May be performed in-house by a hired educator or an officer of AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. or their designee.

 

AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. will reimburse employees in full for any job-related training required by the Company (following approval by the employee’s manager prior to registration, and upon satisfactory completion of the program). If the training is conducted out-of-town, expenses for travel, meals, and/or lodging will be paid by the Company, upon completion and submission of Expense Report form with original receipts. Fees paid by the Company in advance will be paid back to the Company via payroll deduction if the employee does not satisfactorily complete the program.

Training requirements will be determined at three levels: Company, department, and/or individual. Training will be performed either in-house or outside. In-house training includes on-the-job training as well as special training sessions in a more formal classroom environment. Outside training is any external training required where resources are not available within AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. This type of training is generally used for major software changes or for new software packages. Any materials acquired at an outside training session remain Company property.

 

For all training, there will be some measurement of effectiveness put in place with feedback provided to the trainees. It is the intent of AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. to provide training for all employees to help them to develop a broader knowledge base and become more valuable employees.

​

GOVERNMENT REQUIRED COVERAGE. 

 

WORKER'S COMPENSATION. The State of Texas does not require employers to carry workers’ compensation coverage. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. DOES NOT provide this benefit to you. This is designed to provide you with benefits for any injury you may suffer in connection with your employment. Should you need to file a claim for a job- related injury, speak to your manager immediately so proper claims forms can be completed and filed. You must report your injury within 24 hours or your workers’ compensation claim may be denied, and the cost of the medical treatment would be under your medical insurance, if any. In the event of an approved medical claim you must go to our designated medical facility, otherwise you will be responsible for the expenses.

​

UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. pays a percentage of its payroll to the Unemployment Compensation Fund, according to Company employment history. If you become unemployed, you may be eligible for unemployment compensation, under certain conditions, for a limited period. Unemployment compensation provides temporary income for workers who have lost their jobs. To be eligible you must have earned a certain amount over a specified period and be willing and able to work. You should apply for benefits through your local State Unemployment Office as soon as possible. The Company pays the cost of this insurance.

​

SOCIAL SECURITY. The United States Government operates a system of contributory insurance known as Social Security. As a wage earner, you are required by law to contribute a set amount of your weekly wages to the trust fund from which benefits are paid. Your employer, AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. is required to deduct this amount from each paycheck you receive. In addition, the Company matches your contribution dollar for dollar, thereby paying one-half of the cost of your Social Security benefits.

 

OTHER POLICIES.

​

UNLOADING MATERIAL WITH DUMP TRAILERS AND DUMP TRUCKS.

​

• Vehicle Stationary and Transmission Gear in Neutral and Parked Position:

  • It is mandatory for all drivers to ensure that the vehicle is stationary before initiating the unloading process.

  • The transmission gear must be in neutral and the parked position.

  • Dangers of not following this procedure:

    • If the transmission gear is not in neutral or parked position, there is a risk of unintentional vehicle movement during the unloading process.

    • This can result in accidents, injuries, and property damage.

    • It may also lead to the driver losing control of the vehicle, endangering themselves and others.

    • ​

• Vehicle on a Level Ground or Surface:

  • All drivers must ensure that the vehicle is on a level ground or surface before commencing the unloading process.

  • In case of doubt, the driver must exit the vehicle and visually confirm the levelness of the ground.

  • Dangers of not being on a level ground or surface:

    • Unloading on an uneven or inclined surface can cause the vehicle to become unstable.

    • It may result in the vehicle tipping over, leading to accidents, injuries, and potential fatalities.

    • Improper unloading on an uneven surface can also cause the material to spill uncontrollably, creating hazards for nearby personnel and property.

​

• Driver Concentration During Material Dumping:

  • The driver must maintain complete concentration on the unloading process while it is in progress.

  • Dangers and consequences of driver distraction during material dumping:

    • Distractions can lead to errors in judgment, improper control of the dumping mechanism, or failure to observe the surroundings.

    • Inattentiveness may result in accidents, injuries to personnel, damage to equipment or property, or environmental hazards.

    • It is essential for the driver to remain focused and attentive to prevent potential accidents or incidents during the unloading process.

​

• Driver Responsibility and Decision-Making:

  • The driver is 100% responsible for the proper use of the equipment and is considered the captain of the vehicle.

  • While the company strives to provide comprehensive training, it is impossible to cover every potential situation.

  • The driver must utilize their experience, exercise common sense, and employ safety precautions to determine the appropriate solution for each task.

  • In case of uncertainty, no matter how minor, the driver can always seek guidance from the company manager, dispatcher, or any other company representative.

  • The company is committed to providing support and guidance to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vehicle.

​

By adhering to this company policy, we aim to maintain a safe working environment, prevent accidents, and protect the well-being of our employees, clients, and the public.

 

CELL PHONES. The prohibition of using a handheld device while operating a commercial vehicle is based on various factors including regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), accident data, and common sense considerations. This prohibition aims to enhance safety on the roads and prevent distractions that can lead to accidents, injuries, and loss of life.

​

• The FMCSA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation, has established regulations to ensure the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). One such regulation, outlined in Section 392.80 of the FMCSA's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), prohibits the use of handheld mobile devices by drivers of CMVs. According to this regulation, drivers are not allowed to use a mobile phone or engage in any activity that involves holding or dialing a mobile device while operating a CMV. This regulation applies to drivers of trucks, buses, and other commercial vehicles.

​

• Accident data consistently reveals the dangers associated with distracted driving, particularly the use of handheld devices. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives in the United States in 2019 alone. Studies have shown that using handheld devices while driving increases the risk of accidents significantly. These distractions divert a driver's attention from the road, leading to delayed reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased situational awareness. In the context of commercial vehicles, which are often larger and more challenging to maneuver, the risks associated with distracted driving are even greater.

​​

• Using common sense, it is evident that operating a commercial vehicle while using a handheld device is unsafe and can have severe consequences. Commercial drivers are responsible for transporting goods and passengers safely and any distraction while driving jeopardizes their ability to fulfill this duty. The operation of a commercial vehicle requires a driver's full attention as they must navigate through traffic, maintain control of their vehicle and respond to changing road conditions. Engaging in activities such as texting, dialing phone numbers or browsing the internet on a handheld device diverts attention away from these critical tasks and compromises safety.

 

COMMUNICATION. Successful working conditions and relationships depend upon successful communication. Not only do you need to stay aware of changes in procedures, policies and general information; you also need to communicate your ideas, suggestions, personal goals or problems as they affect your work. In addition to the exchanges of information and expressions of ideas and attitudes that occur daily, make certain you are aware of and utilize all AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. methods of communication, including this Employee Handbook, discussions with your manager, memoranda, meetings, computer networks, training sessions, etc.

 

You will receive other information booklets, such as your insurance booklets, from time to time. You may take these booklets home, so your family can learn more about your job and your benefits. In addition, you may receive letters from AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. There is no regular schedule for distribution of this information. The function of each letter is to provide you and your family with interesting news and helpful information, which will keep you current on the events at the Company.

​

COMPUTER SOFTWARE (UNAUTHORIZED COPYING). AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. does not condone the illegal duplication of software. The copyright law is clear. The copyright holder is given certain exclusive rights, including the right to make and distribute copies. It is illegal to make or distribute copies of copyrighted material without authorization. The only exception is the user’s right to make a backup copy for archival purposes.

 

The law protects the exclusive rights of the copyright holder and does not give users the right to copy software unless the manufacturer does not provide a backup copy. Unauthorized duplication is a federal crime. Penalties can include fines up to $250,000, and jail terms up to five years. Even the users of unlawful copies suffer from their own illegal actions. They receive no documentation, no customer support, and no information about product updates.

 

AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. licenses the use of computer software from a variety of outside companies. The Company does not own this software or its related documentation and, unless authorized by the software manufacturer, does not have the right to reproduce it. This software may only be used on an in-house basis. Regarding the use on local area networks or on multiple machines, AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. employees shall use the software only in accordance with the license agreement.

 

Employees learning of any misuse of software or related documentation within the Company shall notify the manager or management.

 

According to Federal copyright law, illegal reproduction of software can be subject to civil and criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Employees who make, acquire, or use unauthorized copies of computer software shall be disciplined as appropriate under the circumstances. Such discipline may include dismissal.

 

COMPUTER VIRUSES. It is extremely important to scan any disks from outside AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. before they are used on any Company computers. Please make sure that virus scan software is used to check these disks before loading or using them. Please make sure that virus protection software is engaged prior to logging onto the Internet.

​

SAFETY MEETINGS.Every month the company is required to hold a safety meeting. It is a requirement and to your advantage to be at these meetings. They give you and your fellow workers a chance to receive information on Company events to review problems and possible solutions and to make suggestions about your department or your job. Employees will be paid $50 (twenty-five dollars) for safety meetings called by AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. during working hours. Safety meetings are scheduled the first Monday of every month. Attendance at meetings scheduled during non-working hours is voluntary and is not considered paid or scheduled time unless stated in the meeting notification.

​

OFFICE STAFF: DRESS CODE AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE. It is not the desire of AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. to impose strict dress and appearance standards. However, all employees are expected to wear clothing and observe personal hygiene habits appropriate to their position and the nature of the work performed. These standards are especially important for those employees in direct contact with customers and other members of the business community. It is important an employee’s appearance projects a positive and appropriate image for the Company.

 

All employees are required to maintain the highest standards of personal hygiene including regular bathing, clean hands, and fingernails. All employees must wash their hands after going to the restroom and before going back to work. The following are some examples of clothing that is prohibited: sweatpants, gym shorts or cutoffs, tights or "leggings" without an over-skirt, halters/tank tops without an over-blouse or jacket, see- through tops, sweat suits, micro-mini skirts, etc. Clothing is to be free from holes (sewn shut) and should fit properly (loose-fitting clothing is a safety hazard). Any employee who reports for work attired in a manner unacceptable to Company standards may be subject to disciplinary action or required to return home to correct the situation. The period of absence will be treated as unpaid leave.

 

AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. may require certain employees to conform to a more conservative dress code. Generally, these would include employees with a high degree of visibility and/or contact with customers. A neat, tasteful appearance contributes to the positive impression you make on our customers. You are expected to be suitably attired and appropriately groomed during working hours or when representing AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. A good, clean appearance bolsters your own poise and self- confidence and greatly enhances our Company image.

 

DRIVER DRESS CODE. AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. serves customers that have high standards of safety. Wearing PPE which consists of Hard Hat, Safety Vest, Safety Boots and appropriate eye ware. Jeans and sleeved shirts are mandatory.

​

EMERGENCIES. In case of fire, severe weather, earthquake, medical, or safety emergencies during normal working hours, employees should call 9-1-1, then immediately notify their manager.

 

INJURY OR ILLNESS. In the event you witness a medical emergency, do the following:

1. Summon necessary medical assistance immediately.

2. Call 9-1-1 immediately and give as much detail as possible.

3. Provide the approximate age, symptoms, and location of the injured/ill individual so emergency vehicles can be properly equipped and staffed.

4. Locate someone qualified to administer first aid, if needed.

5. Wait for help to arrive.

6. Report injuries to management, even though medical attention may not be required.

 

Smoke or Fire: Personal safety and discretion should be considered before attempting to extinguish any fire. Fire extinguishers are located throughout the building and employees should acquaint themselves with their locations and operations.

 

Remember ... when an emergency arises, be calm; walk, do not run! Always direct and meet the emergency vehicle at the facility. Familiarize yourself with fire and first aid equipment and evacuation procedures. We may schedule emergency drills from time to time for employee safety. An Employee will be assigned by the safety manager for each area of the building to ensure everyone is accounted for in the event of an alarm. It is important you make sure your employment records reflect your current contact in the event of a medical emergency. Changes should be made in writing with the Company.

 

Federal law ("OSHA") requires we keep records of all illnesses and accidents that occur during the workday. If you hurt yourself or become ill, please contact your manager for assistance. If you fail to report an injury, you may jeopardize your right to collect workers ‘compensation payments as well as health benefits. OSHA also provides for your right to know about any health hazards, which might be present on the job. If you have questions or concerns, contact your manager.

 

EMPLOYEE REFERENCES. Information concerning former or current AEC Brothers Trucking, Inc. employees is considered confidential. All mail and telephone inquiries are directed to the Executive personnel. Employees other than the President are strictly prohibited from providing any information concerning former or current employees.

 

Information released by the Company includes dates of employment and positions held. Unless required by court order or subpoena, the employee must provide a signed release to the President to release information in addition to dates of employment and positions. As an employee, do not under any circumstances respond to any requests for information regarding another employee unless it is part of your assigned job responsibilities, and then only with written authorization from the employee. If it is not part of your job responsibility and you receive a request for a reference, forward it to the President.