National Association of Trailer Manufacturers -NATM- New President Announces Important New Safety Initiatives

Asset Caption: NORM HELMKE of Featherlite is new NATM president

Asset Caption: NATM Decal signals compliance to recommended safety and quality standards

Asset Caption: Press release
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    TOPEKA, Kan.--June 28, 2002--According to Norm Helmke, newly elected president of The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM), the organization has implemented new safety initiatives that will give consumers vital information about the safety and quality of the horse, stock, recreational or utility trailers they are purchasing or considering.
    Helmke, who also serves as Director of Administration for Cresco, Iowa-based Featherlite, Inc., says the new safety program is a continuation of the NATM membership's ongoing commitment to high manufacturing and safety standards. "Now, when consumers see the red, white and blue NATM Compliance Decals, they can be assured that the manufacturer of the trailer they are considering subscribes to the NATM Guidelines for Recommended Minimum Manufacturing Practices and manufactures trailers in accordance with NATM Guidelines and federal regulations," says Helmke.
    To date, more than 70 NATM members have already undergone voluntary Compliance Consultations and many are already displaying the NATM decals on the trailers they produce. Founded in 1987, NATM represents over 300 manufacturers who produce trailers weighing less than 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight. These trailers are constructed of aluminum, steel, and combinations of both, and are towed as a bumper pull or by a gooseneck coupler. Product types include horse, stock, boat, and open and enclosed utility and recreational trailers, and a wide variety of custom and special use trailers.
    Other recent initiatives by NATM include the implementation of a Warning Label program for its member/customers as well as the development of a Model User's Manual for use by member manufacturers. The Warning Labels, which are designed to be placed in conspicuous places on the trailer, provide trailer users with a quick visual reference of hazards. The Model User's Manual includes instruction on proper trailer hook-up, weight distribution, towing methods and preventative maintenance requirements.
    Additionally, 2002 is the first year that the NATM is offering educational seminars for its membership. According to Helmke, NATM staff will be traveling the country offering a series of seminars covering issues such as product liability issues, safety compliance, development of user's manuals, and more. These seminars are designed to educate members to achieve the goal of enhanced trailer safety for consumers.
    For more information about the NATM, its membership, and its programs, visit the NATM Web site at www.natm.com. Or contact Executive Director Pam O'Toole at 785-271-0208. Email: pam@natm.com.

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