CVSA’s International Roadcheck Is Scheduled for May 14-16

By Steve Binkley,
Safety Consultant

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance International Roadcheck is scheduled for May 14-16, this is a nationwide high visibility, high volume commercial vehicle inspection and regulatory compliance program. All certified officers in all states, province of Canada, Mexico and FMCSA officials will be out enforcing rules and regulations regarding commercial vehicles.

Carriers and drivers should be prepared to be stopped and inspected at weigh stations, inspection stations and temporary inspection locations. As a former participant on both the law enforcement and motor carrier side I expect to see increased law enforcement and inspection stations open and ready to inspect.

CVSA will collect the data after the 72-hour roadcheck and release the results later this summer. Each year CVSA selects areas to be focused on by inspectors, this year will be 1. Tractor protection systems and 2. Alcohol and drug possession and controlled substance.

What is the carrier and driver to do? how to prepare?

Motor Carriers and drivers should be familiar with and comfortable with the level I inspection process which will include a complete and inspection of the brake system.
Drivers should be trained and know the tractor protection valve system and demonstrate how to activate if ask by the inspector.
Be familiar with all requirements of 392.7, 396.9 and 396.11 (inspections).
Remember drug and alcohol violations can be career ending for drivers and effect the reputation of a motor carriers and how this is taken care, what is the motor carriers policy when addresses violations of 392.4 and 392.5.
Controlled substance and alcohol possession/use remains a significant concern for motor carriers, drivers, and the public. The number of prohibited drivers listed in the U.S. Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH) has been increasing. This alarming trend poses a threat to all motorists who travel on roadways throughout North America.
This year’s International Roadcheck will serve as a reminder to motor carriers to establish and strictly enforce clear policies to prevent controlled substance and alcohol possession or use in the workplace. In addition, U.S. motor carriers should regularly query the DACH to ensure their drivers are not in prohibited status. Commercial motor vehicle drivers are reminded to adhere to their company’s policies and to not possess, use or be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances while on duty. Inspectors are reminded to be vigilant in the detection and interdiction of such driver violations during every inspection.
Remember during the driver inspection portion of the inspection which includes the drug and alcohol inspection, drivers CDL’s and license will be inspected, seatbelt use, and hours of service will also be inspected.
If out of service violations are discovered during the inspection procedure per the North American Standard Our of Service Criteria, drivers and or equipment may be placed out of service.

Remember now is the time to prepare, use all opportunities to train and inspect your drivers and equipment. Expect to be inspected! Don’t be a negative number!