In late 2019 and into 2020, all GUC vehicles received a new tool to enhance driver safety. Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL) is a Global Positioning System (GPS) based software tool designed to improve both the safety of employees in GUC vehicles and the efficiency of workload management.  

Our Gas Department successfully used an AVL system for 10 years, and now all departments are using a similar, more enhanced system called Verizon Connect. Some of the main benefits of this tool include:

• Fewer calls to drivers out in the field 
• Improved workflow and customer service with real-time GPS vehicle tracking and maps 
• Added security for drivers, alone or with a crew, when standard communication is lost 
• Enhanced driver accountability 
• Enhanced preventative maintenance schedules 
• Faster theft recovery 
• Enhanced safety feedback to drivers 

“Not only has AVL been a great tool to help me and my team drive safely, but it’s also given me a more efficient means to communicate with the crew when they’re out in the field,” said Meter Crew Leader Allen Lyles. “I’m able to see who is closest for an emergency request, or any request for that matter. I try not to call Meter Technicians while they are driving, and AVL gives me the chance to make sure I call when their vehicles are idle. It’s also helpful to have been able to create our own map group, so that only our 10 vehicles show up on the map. Overall, it’s been helpful.”  

Safety First 
The 2017 Utilities Industry Serious Injuries and Fatalities Study showed driving as the industry’s greatest exposure to life-changing injuries or fatalities, so the most important benefit of having a GPS/AVL system is reducing driver exposure and risk. 

“With AVL, we can identify and communicate exposures in advance of an incident,” said Director of Gas Systems Anthony Miller. “Our Lighthouse process allows us to observe behaviors. AVL allows us to not only observe driver behavior, but influence change by providing feedback. We’re not aiming to look over employee shoulders, but simply add another tool to encourage safe behaviors.” 

How it Works 
The AVL device installed on GUC vehicles not only shares location information, but also records driver safety information such as speed and fast starts and stops. This information can be used to give drivers feedback on where safety improvements can be made, and to highlight safe driving behaviors. The AVL device also works with the FleetFocus and FuelFocus systems (also installed in 2019 and 2020) to better assist Fleet staff with maintenance schedules. 

We spoke to some employees who drive a lot of miles in their GUC vehicles, and here’s what they have to say about AVL. “It definitely keeps us mindful and accountable with driving,” said Tree Trimmer Gustavo Smith. “AVL makes me more mindful of the speedometer.” Meter Technician Tony Jordan agrees. “We have definitely seen the benefits of maintaining appropriate speeds,” he says. “It is safer and does not use  as much fuel.”  

Email & Video Training for AVL 
An email address specifically used for AVL system updates and issues is available. Please use AVL_Help@guc.com to communicate any issues or inaccuracies you find in the AVL Verizon Connect system or if you switch vehicles or drivers. This will ensure the system remains updated. 

In addition, a virtual training was recorded and uploaded to SharePoint/Stream/Videos/Fleet User Mapping Fundamentals. If your schedule did not allow you to attend one of the AVL virtual training sessions in 2020, or you’d like a refresher training, visit that channel or click here.