It is time again to prepare for Brake Safety Week Inspection from the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA).

If you have not checked your brake hose and tubing chafing – now is the time to do so – this is what the inspectors will be looking for across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Inspectors will also perform North American Standard Level I and V Inspections.

Brake violations hold the largest percentage of out-of-service violations during roadside inspections. Here is what you need to check before hitting the road, as inspectors will be on the lookout for:

• Non-functioning, missing, loose or cracked parts, or contaminated parts

• Rust or friction holes

• Broken springs in the brake housing section of the parking brake

• Brake components and line air leaks

• Air system air pressure maintains between 90-100 psi (620-690 kPa)

• Inspector for S-cam flip-over and measure pushrod travel

• Check to make sure slack adjusters are the same length (from the center of S-cam to the center of clevis pin)

• Air chambers on each axle are the same size

• Warning devices and ABS malfunction lamp(s) and low air-pressure

• Ensure trailer breakaway systems are operable  

• Tractor protection system, including the bleed-back system on the trailer inspection

How Can You Prepare for Brake Hose and Tube Inspections?

To be prepared for the inspection, ensure your brakes are operable at the safest level. Make sure to make these tips a part of your pre-and post-trip inspections. Start by inspecting all brake tubing hoses and ensuring these hoses are not kinked and in proper working order. You will need to look for brake hoses that could be rubbing or making contact with the brakes, steering suspension, tires or frame, or other components.

Listen closely for any air leaks, find the location, and repair as needed. You will need to ensure that all air lines are in proper working order and are secured in the proper place. Check for any abrasion, wear and tear and replace if needed.

Ensure that all hoses and tubing are the correct diameter size, and the secondary white color is visible.

If you find any of these issues – be sure to document them and report them in your driver’s vehicle inspection reports (DVIR). When making repairs, ensure that the repairs meet all manufacturer’s guidelines and requirements.

Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Brake Checks to Keep You Prepared for Brake Safety Week

• Perform daily visual checks and fix or repair loose hanging air chambers, slack adjusters, or pushrods.

• Be sure to do weekly checks of the air disc brake rotors for cracks, along with checking the drum brakes for any wear or tear.

• Monthly checks should be done for moisture in the air system.

• It is recommended that you grease the S-cam brake tubes and automatic slack adjusters. Doing so helps prevent rust and corrosion.

Remember, brakes that are not properly maintained reduce your braking capacity and stopping distance – ultimately putting your safety and the safety of others at risk.