September 15-21 is this year’s Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) Brake Safety Week. Throughout the week, enforcement officials will conduct roadside safety inspections on commercial motor vehicles throughout North America. According to the CVSA, while checking brake system components is always part of the North American Standard Inspection Program, this safety week places particular focus on brake hoses/tubing as a reminder of their critical role in keeping fleets and the public safe.

Last year, out-of-adjustment brakes and brake-system violations represented 45 percent of all out-of-service vehicle violations issued during the campaign. Given the critical role that brake systems play in public and fleet safety, no number of violations is acceptable. Here are three things you can do to ensure your fleet not only passes the inspection blitz with zero violations but is operating safely for all the days and months to come.

1. Make sure your preventative maintenance is up to date and on schedule. More in-depth than a simple lube, oil and filter change, proper PMs are vital for proactively identifying problems early, and ensuring all aspects of your brake system are functioning properly.
2. Our motto at Amerit is “Inspect what you expect”, make sure you check-in on  drivers to ensure they are taking the time to perform all post/pre-trip checklist items. This includes a visual inspection of the brakes, hoses, air tanks, etc. Drivers should also check their air systems, making sure there are no air leaks and no contamination of oil or water.
3. Know and prepare for the inspection procedure. The CVSA will conduct the North American Standard Inspection Procedures, with an emphasis on brake systems, and special focus placed on ensuring brake hoses are properly attached, undamaged, without leaks and appropriately flexible. For the full inspection procedures please click here.

While preparing for any CVSA Blitz is important, it’s also important to remember that successful fleets are always prepared for roadside inspections. Making sure commercial motor vehicles are safe, compliant and in peak operating condition should always be our greatest priority, no matter the week.

Embrace it and welcome it. Roadside inspections are here to ensure our drivers, communities and roads as safe as possible.

For more information on the CVSA Brake Safety Week please click here.