You have a week to get ready for this year’s commercial vehicle brake inspection blitz.
Thursday, Sept. 7, is Brake Safety Day, an enforcement and compliance campaign during which law enforcement agencies across North America will conduct inspections on trucks and buses to identify out-of-adjustment brakes, and brake-system and antilock braking system violations. The day is part of the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s Operation Airbrake Program.
On Sept. 7, inspectors will conduct standard Level I Inspections. These involve a 37-step procedure that includes an examination of both driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness. Inspections will include
- examining all brake-system components to identify loose or missing parts
- checking or air or hydraulic fluid leaks
- seeking worn linings, pads, drums or rotors
- looking for ABS malfunction indicator lamps
- measuring pushrod stroke, where applicable
In the 10 jurisdictions using performance-based brake testing equipment, vehicle braking efficiency will be measured using a slow speed roller dynamometer.
Vehicles with defective or out-of-adjustment brakes will be placed out of service, according to the CVSA.
Brake-related violations comprised the largest percentage — 45.7 percent — of all out-of-service violations during the CVSA’s International Roadcheck campaign in 2016.
According to the CVSA, the goal of Brake Safety Day is to reduce the number of crashes caused by poorly maintained braking systems. Brake Safety Day activities also are meant to educate drivers, mechanics, owner/operators and others on the importance of proper brake maintenance, operation and performance.
This year’s Sept. 7 Brake Safety Day follows the May 3 unannounced Brake Safety Day, and replaces the seven-day Brake Safety Week campaign from previous years.
