Smith Transport – Brake Safety Week 2014

At Smith Transport, we are committed to safety. That’s why we want to spread brake safety awareness and tell you all about Brake Safety Week, happening right now!

Brake Safety Week – September 7-13, 2014 – is part of the Operation Airbrake program sponsored by CVSA in partnership with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. During the week-long brake safety campaign, commercial motor vehicle (CMV) inspectors will conduct brake system inspections on trucks and buses throughout North America to identify out-of-adjustment brakes and brake-system violations.

The goal of Operation Airbrake is to reduce the number of highway crashes caused by faulty braking systems by conducting roadside inspections and educating drivers, mechanics and others on the importance of proper brake inspection, maintenance and operation.

Properly functioning brake systems are crucial to safe vehicle operation. CMV brakes are designed to hold up under tough conditions, but they must be inspected and maintained carefully and consistently so they operate and perform properly throughout the vehicle’s life.

Did you know brake-related violations comprise the largest percentage of all out-of-service violations cited during roadside inspections in 2013? Improperly installed or poorly maintained brake systems can reduce the braking capacity and stopping distance of trucks and buses, which poses a serious risk to driver and public safety.

This Brake Safety Week, brake inspections will be conducted to identify loose or missing parts, air or fluid leaks, worn linings, pads, drums or rotors, and other faulty brake-system components. Antilock braking systems malfunction indicator lamps will also be checked. Defective or out-of-adjustment brakes will result in the vehicle being placed out of service. Click here to read more about the Operation Airbrake Inspection Procedure.

Outreach and educational efforts from CMV inspectors, motor carriers and others in the transportation industry are integral to the campaign’s success. We encourage Smith Transport drivers and the general public to participate by learning more about Brake Safety Week–click here to check out resources and educational materials.

Drivers can inspect their brake systems every day. Even if you can’t go under the vehicle, you can listen for air leaks, check low air signals and look for component damage. If you can go under your vehicle, you can measure pushrod stroke the same way an inspector does and compare the results to the pushrod stroke limits set by regulation. Check your brakes today and ask others, “Have you checked your brakes?”

During the second week of September, join Smith Transport in educating drivers on brake safety and encouraging brake safety compliance. Want to learn more? Visit cvsa.org and keep up-to-date on Facebook and Twitter.

Life as a driver for Smith Transport offers many unique advantages. If you’re interested in driving for Smith, contact a recruiter today!

• Apply online – HERE
• Email – mmccloskey@smithtransport.com
• Call our Recruiting Department – 866.265.3718
• “Like” Smith Transport on Facebook