
Safety Department Specialists, LLC (SDS) is a Trucking Industry focused Safety Consulting business based out of Indianapolis, Indiana.
SDS LLC was started in April 2022 by two former co-workers who together have more than 50 years in combined experience in the transportation Industry. Their expertise is wide-ranging across all Safety Department functions and regulations, especially (but not limited to) those concerning Hazardous Materials.
Testimonials
You know “inviting” someone in to check your work/department is never easy. Then when they find errors it’s even worse! Audits can be stressful and honestly, I was stressed. However, I learned very quickly that SDS were here to help, which made it a pleasant audit. They made great suggestions, and they really know regulations. They gave good, detailed explanations and examples. I’m glad I got to know them. Since the audit I have asked for their help/suggestions a few times. Great people to work with!
Safety Director ~80 Truck Fleet
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Jonathan and Safety Department Specialists for several years. Their ability to assess and improve safety of an operation is excellent. Jonathan has real world experience in the trucking industry. This experience, combined with a unique way of effectively communicating with both safety teams and drivers, makes Safety Department Specialists a real asset for any trucking company. They are a results driven company with a track record to prove it.
VP of Compliance ~550 Truck Fleet
When we decided to make our trucking company grow, we knew we would need help with our safety program. We knew Jonathan was the guy to help us get in compliance, and we trust his guidance and knowledge. He's helped us secure customers, and I sleep better knowing we're compliant. I am looking forward to continuing doing business with Safety Department Specialists.
Fleet Owner ~2 Truck Fleet
The process of starting a trucking company and maintaining the necessary records is not an easy task. I've learned, rules and regulations change at a rapid pace. The reliability and guidance from Safety Department Specialists is unmatched. Their knowledge and ability to improve the company as a whole is a guarantee. They are considered an asset to our company and would recommend to anyone wanting to improve their business. We are looking forward to growing our business with the help from Jonathan and his team.
Business Manager - 10 Truck Fleet
If you are reading this and need help with your safety needs, do not hesitate to pick up the phone or send an email to Safety Department Specialist, in the long run, it is the most important thing you can do for your company and the safety of your drivers. Jonathan is great! As a Safety Manager hired to bring a company into compliance and "fix the issues", it can be a nerve racking experience. With Jonathan's help, it has been an exciting experience. He took the time to review our DQF files, D&A files, and has performed mock audits related to FMCSA and OSHA to make sure we are...
Safety Manager - 40 Truck Fleet
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Please reach out.
Safety@teamsdsllc.com
Jonathan Burkert is a transportation safety consultant and founder of Safety Department Specialists, bringing hands-on experience solving complex regulatory and operational challenges within the trucking industry. His background includes leadership roles in driver training, hazardous materials transportation, fleet safety management, and regulatory compliance.
Jonathan has extensive experience helping motor carriers improve safety performance, strengthen compliance programs, and prepare for regulatory audits. His expertise includes FMCSA compliance, driver qualification management, onboarding and training programs, DOT and OSHA audits, drug and alcohol program administration, accident investigation, corrective action planning, and hazardous materials transportation.
Throughout his career, Jonathan has developed driver training programs, implemented fleet-wide safety initiatives, rebuilt safety departments, and guided carriers of all sizes through compliance challenges. Known for his practical, real-world approach, he works closely with company leadership and drivers to create sustainable safety cultures that reduce risk, improve operational performance, and protect businesses from costly violations.
Jonathan's mission is simple: help transportation companies operate safer, stay compliant, and build programs that support long-term success.
