Helpful Tips on Brake Safety and Cargo Securement to Help Prepare You for CVSA Roadcheck
The CVSA Roadcheck is an annual three-day event conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) in which law enforcement agencies across North America conduct intensive inspections of commercial vehicles, including trucks and buses, to promote safety in the commercial motor vehicle industry.
This year the roadcheck is scheduled to take place from May 16-18 and will focus on ABS braking systems and cargo securement. Last year brake systems accounted for 25%, and cargo securement accounted for 11%, of out-of-service violations.
Want to pass your inspections? Here are some tips to keep your fleet in safe working order.
Brakes
Drivers:
By performing a pre-trip inspection, drivers can visually inspect the brake system for pressure loss from air leaks and chafed air hoses. The driver should also listen for any unusual sounds when applying the brakes.
Technicians:
A trained technician can inspect the brake components visually to look for signs of wear or damage. Inspection can include checking the brake pads or shoes, drums or rotors, calipers or wheel cylinders, brake lines, and other components.
Electronic Monitoring:
Many modern heavy-duty trucks come equipped with electronic brake monitoring systems, which can provide real-time data on the condition of the brakes. New after-market solutions using Bluetooth sensors that tie into ELD tablets, warn drivers of brake, tire, and hub line pressure issues before they become more serious and costly to repair.
Cargo Securement
Use the Right Equipment:
Use appropriate tie-downs, straps, chains, and other equipment that meet or exceed the weight and size requirements of the transported cargo. See FMCSA guidelines.
Distribute Weight Evenly:
Ensure that the weight of the cargo is evenly distributed and centered over the axles to maintain stability and prevent shifting during transit.
Secure Heavy Items First:
Secure heavy items first and then work towards lighter items. This can help ensure that the heavy items are secure and not shifting during transit.
Know the Regulations:
Understand the federal, state, and local regulations regarding cargo securement. For permitted loads, ensure your driver has access to the correct permits via paper or a digital library.
Use Blocking and Bracing:
Use blocking and bracing materials to prevent cargo from shifting or tipping during transit. Materials such as wood blocks or dunnage can be used to fill gaps and provide additional support.
Check Frequently:
Inspections are required (FMCSA §392.9) within the first 50 miles after loading and then every 150 miles, 3 hours, or at a duty change, whichever comes first.
Check Before You Go:
Check all tie-downs, straps, chains, anchor points, and other equipment for wear, damage, and proper tension before starting a trip.
Secure Cargo from All Sides:
Use multiple tie-downs and straps to secure cargo from all sides, including the front, back, and sides of the cargo.
Roadcheck helps the CVSA to identify safety trends and areas for improvement in the industry. The data collected during the event is used to develop safety programs and initiatives to address safety concerns and reduce the number of crashes involving commercial vehicles. To be further prepared for this event, you can find detailed brake and cargo securement safety guides from CSVA.
Contact Pedigree Technologies to learn more about our fleet safety and management solutions today!
