Defective truck brakes can spell disaster for the truck driver, other drivers, and the shipping company. During Brake Safety Week 2019, it was decided that vehicles would be restricted from use if they had critical inspection issues or critical brake violations. This was done, in part, to lessen the number of defective brake related accidents.
Proper brake systems and their importance should be part of operator education. Properly operating brake systems can be better assured by conducting roadside inspections. Specifically, this year, the focus was on tubing and brake hoses. But, because the entire brake system works as a whole, equal attention should be paid to each and every aspect.
To maximize efficiencies, fleet managers are turning to technology to improve compliance and asset safety. PM (preventative maintenance) practices are improved and inspections are streamlined by the use of fleet management software.
Brake Maintenance Process Streamlining
Particularly if you’re on a tight budget, you’re well aware of how expensive brake systems are. While still maintaining compliance, you try to get the most out of each and every part. The key to extending the lifespan of a brake system of any vehicle is a strong PM schedule.
One good strategy is to follow the guidelines set forth by the manufacturer. However, when creating service schedules and managing maintenance, inspection results should be leveraged because, from fleet to fleet, asset utilization varies.
Fleet management software allows for the following:
- Digital streamlining of external repair order management with maintenance shop integration (if maintenance is outsourced).
- Track all maintenance from beginning to end.
- Failed inspections can be automatically linked to work orders.
Improve Inspections with Technology
Drivers can better identify and address issues with their vehicle and assist with fleet maintenance compliance through the performance of DVIRs (daily vehicle inspection reports).
When it comes to inspections, two main challenges are faced by fleet managers. They are as follows:
- Ensure that drivers complete full inspections.
- Receive those inspection results promptly.
With old paper DVIRs, many aspects were lacking. But today, with electronic, digital DVIRs, a simple mobile app is used so drivers can complete inspections. The results of these are uploaded so that fleet managers can be made aware, in real time, of any vehicle issues and quickly resolve them. Additionally, inspection times by drivers are now lessened and the information gap between fleet managers and drivers has been eliminated.
What drivers should watch for on brake inspections:
- Broken or loose hardware on the brake system
- Missing hardware
- Improperly joined tubing
- Air leaks
- Worn or chafed hoses
In order for you as a fleet manager to maintain compliance and efficiency, are your current management practices sufficient? Is there a need for the development of new brake safety procedures? Remember, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety of the public, your drivers, and your vehicles as they relate to your company and business.
Outsource Your Fleet Maintenance With Mickey
Mickey Genuine Parts has conveniently located, certified service centers throughout the United States. We service brakes and all other parts and mechanics involved with your shipping and transportation vehicles. If you do your own maintenance, Mickey has the part you need. If we don’t have it in stock, we will find it and ship it to you in an expedited manner. Contact us at Mickey today to discuss service, the purchase of a part, a used trailer, or other shipping vehicle concern.