ASHBURN, Va. If the challenging developments of 2011 have taught motorcoach operators anything, it may be that its more important than ever to assure your company is in compliance and has a sound risk management program.

Late next month, the United Motorcoach Association will conduct its annual Safety Management Seminar, a must-attend event for anyone who manages the risks associated with motorcoach fleet operations.

Heres a summary of the principal sessions that will be offered at this years seminar:

DOT Compliance Reviews: What you can expect and how to prepare for a smooth and successful safety audit.

Safety: More Than a Satisfactory Safety Rating: A satisfactory safety rating only covers specific operational components that are regulated. When it comes to an overall safety program, this session will outline other areas of risk a transportation operation faces.

Motivating Drivers: Getting your new and veteran drivers to perform for you and your customers.

Effective Supervisors: Keeping your staff safe takes effective supervision. Without the right skills, supervisors are unlikely to succeed and safety will be compromised.

Vehicle-based Safety Technologies: A review of current and emerging vehicle-based safety technologies worth consideration for your fleet.

Fatigue: Scientific, Medical and Practical Perspectives: A look at fatigue from a scientific and medical perspective, and practical ways to use this knowledge as part of a fatigue management program.

CSA and Regulatory Jeopardy: With the implementation of CSA 2010 and the Safety Measurement System, knowledge of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations is paramount in managing your BASIC scores. This fun session will test your knowledge and look at common mistakes and misinterpretations of the FMCSRs.

ADA Compliance: With an increased focus on ADA compliance, understanding your obligations can avoid unnecessary fines and poor publicity.

Security Awareness Back to Basics: Security has come a long way in the past 10 years, with much emphasis on response recently. However, the best defense is still prevention a review of basic security protocols.

The seminar will be Nov. 29-30 at the National Transportation Safety Board Training Center here, with the host hotel near Dulles International Airport.

An important change has been adopted for this years seminar: The first day of the safety seminar will be a full day, with a half-day session to follow on day two. The change is designed to make it easier for travelers - both those who fly in for the seminar and those who drive.

Also, for the second consecutive year, UMA will conduct a day-and-a-half Business Management Seminar immediately following the Safety Management Seminar.

The business seminar presents established curriculum from the Bus & Motorcoach Academy in an in-depth classroom format.

To learn more about both seminars, click on the links on the home page of UMA at www.uma.org.