Brake Safety Week
The CVSA’s Operation Airbrake Program holds an annual Brake Safety Week scheduled for August 22-29, 2021. During this campaign, commercial vehicle inspectors will conduct brake inspections across the country to identify brake-related violations which can pose a risk to drivers and public safety.
How To Prepare
This year’s Brake Safety Week will have inspectors checking brake systems and brake components for out-of-service conditions and compiling data on brake hoses and tubing (a focus area for this year’s safety week). Here are our recommendations for preparation:
- Make sure your air brake system and all brake components have been recently checked
- Your mechanic should know the size and type of the air brake chamber and the maximum allowable push rod travel for that chamber. Be sure it is properly adjusted
- Inspect all brake hoses and tubing to be sure they are free of leaks or visible damage
- Components such as cotter and clevis pins, should be checked for wear or damage
- Check the slack adjuster; automatic slack adjusters can become worn and faulty
- Test all air lines; be sure brakes are not spongy, soft, or allow the pedal to be depressed too far
These are some of the obvious components that can be flagged during an inspection. Get your brakes check by a professional and avoid a vehicle out-of-service condition. Proactive brake checks and any necessary repairs are important to the safety of the driver, the public, and your transport business.