CVSA Brake Safety Week September 21-27, 2008

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is out in force this coming week to promote brake safety in their Operation Air Brake campaign.

If your brakes are out of adjustment, we suggest you have them adjusted (or, better yet, learn how to adjust them yourself). If you are unsure, we suggest you have them checked. Not only is it unsafe to travel with brakes that are not properly adjusted, but, this coming week, it could cost you time and money!

Officers will be performing Level IV commercial vehicle inspections at an increased level during Operation Air Brake. The emphasis of the inspections is on the air brake systems, which means that officers will be taking a close look at your brakes.

The inspection procedure is as follows:
* Locate a safe inspection site.
* Assess safety issues.
* Inspect mechanical components of air brake system.
* Inspect mechanical components of steer axle air brake system.
* Inspect brake adjustment.
* Build air pressure to 90-100 lbs.
* Inspect air brake ABS (anti-lock braking system) if present.
* Check rate of air loss.
* Test low pressure warning device.
* Check TPS (tractor protection system).
* Complete paperwork and share results with driver (pass/fail- out of service).

Officers will look at the vehicle registration, driver’s CDL (commercial driver’s license), low air warning device, push rod travel, brake linings and drums, air loss rate if there is an air leak, and the TPS.

Officers will also be meeting with drivers and mechanics at truck stops, truck shops, rest areas and other neutral locations to show drivers how to inspect and adjust their brake systems- they will perform no fault inspections at these neutral locations as educational demonstrations. These inspections will not result in violations and are conducted to promote safety and increase drivers’ understanding of the brake systems.

Tags: Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, CVSA, Operation Air Brake, Commercial Vehicle Inspections