Jeff Urquhart: Driving safety forward

Leveraging decades of hands-on experience, Jeff Urquhart continues to drive improvements in safety, efficiency and quality across the RST fleet. He joined RST in 2001, transitioned to a driver role in 2011, later became maintenance manager, and now serves as operations specialist.

A key part of Jeff’s role is overseeing the driver sign-off process, an internal safety measure that ensures drivers are fully trained and competent before transporting specific material. 

“It’s not just paperwork,” Jeff says. “It’s about making sure drivers understand the procedures.” 

Jeff and his team follow up on driver signoffs with regular observations to prevent shortcuts and reinforce safety standards. He also tracks recurring equipment issues across the fleet, such as parts that frequently need replacing, and works to resolve them. When the cause is linked to how a vehicle is being used, Jeff addresses it through driver education to help reduce wear and improve performance. 

“Drivers should always feel comfortable calling for help,” Jeff says. “If something isn’t right, don’t touch it until you talk to someone. Safety must come first.” 

Jeff also works closely with Emergency Response Assistance Canada under Transport Canada’s emergency response assistance plan program. His emergency response team responds to incidents involving hazardous materials. During a wildfire near Miramichi, N.B., this summer, Jeff helped coordinate helicopter fueling operations for over five weeks. 

For Jeff, safety is more than a checklist. It’s a mindset. 

“We want everyone to understand why we have these procedures. At the end of the day, we want everybody to go home safe.”

About RST

RST is a recognized leader in safe, efficient tank transportation throughout Atlantic Canada, Ontario, Quebec and the eastern United States. In addition to conveying cargo in line with top tier industry standards, RST also provides emergency response and training services throughout Atlantic Canada.