Ready for your Annual DOT Inspection?

Getting ready for your Inspection

Whether a USDOT Annual, BIT90-day, or other state-required vehicle inspection, make it a policy to conduct the required regular Inspections on the vehicle, and address any issues when they come up, you are likely ready for your DOT Annual or State Inspection. I would add, avoid any unneeded required repair issues documented in the report by making sure you take the time to have yourself or your team inspect the unit(s) Pre or Post-Inspection Checklist. Prior to checking everything right down to the wiper fluid, any issue(s) will be documented in the report. A clean inspection is the goal, so also double-check that the required Portable Fire Extinguisher is fully charged and securely mounted in an easy-to-access location. DOT also requires that you have Spare Fuses and Emergency Reflective Triangles on board at all times.

Braking System and general operating condition of said vehicle

Brakes are always a big deal, and they are visually inspected as well as tested. Having an Air brake system means you likely have a larger vehicle or are transporting heavy loads. Here is a printable, CDL Air Brakes Seven-Step Checklist and Pre/Post Inspection Checklist that should be part of your regular inspection program. It is very important to have your driver conduct this simple test if operating an Air Brake System, as well as a general overview of all items of your pre-inspection list, prior to your DOT Annual Inspection, to ensure the best possible outcome. The last thing you want on a report is a documented needed repair when it could have easily been avoided.

Often overlooked, but vital, the AIR Brake Automatic Slack Adjusters System can get out of sync, which is avoidable. Remember, if you do not measure up (pushrod slack adjusters measurement) at a US DOT Inspection station, it is safe to say you are likely not going anywhere. 6 Pack Adjustment is a way to help reset the system and get all the brakes in sync, which is vital to avoid downtime and, moreover, a safe vehicle on our roads and highways. Chart of Air Brake Adjustment Limits.

The 6-Pack Brake Adjustment might be helpful and is a simple task to complete. Bring the system up to no less than 90 pounds and make three hard brake applications. By the time you make three hard brake applications, you are going to be below 90 psi, so let the system build up, and make three more full hard brake applications. Unless there is a mechanical issue with the braking system components, this will likely reset the brakes and keep your brakes adjusted within DOT specs and guidelines. Whether the old manual AIR Brake Slack adjusters or required automatic slack adjusters since 1994, the Air Brakes are a vital subject and part of your CDL training and testing qualifications. There is wonderful information on the web, as well as videos, regarding the subject: How to Determine Air Brake Adjustment | Air Brake Smart and Chart of Air Brake Adjustment Limits.

I do not want to underemphasize the whole of the vehicle when it comes to all DOT requirements, but a regular and required Pre or Post Inspection will allow you to address issues as they come up. Remember, for any issues, a Supervisor should be notified immediately regarding any safety concerns and addressed ASAP!

Commercial vehicles require certain safety equipment for vehicle protection and for the safety of those in the vehicle

A checklist to ensure that each vehicle has the following safety equipment:

Note: Guidelines and Regulations are subject to change, so for the most updated and additional information, https://csa.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyplanner/

5.1.4 Emergency Equipment (393.95)
Each CMV (except those towed in a driveway–tow-away operation) must have the following emergency equipment:

Portable Fire Extinguisher – proper type, size, and rating – securely mounted in an easy-to-access location
Spare Fuses – All vehicle operational fuses
Emergency Reflective Triangles – warning devices for stopped vehicles

The US Department of Transportation and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), regulate the safety of commercial motor vehicles used on highways for transporting passengers or property.

FMCSA regulation 49 CFR Part 393.95 requires safety equipment on all of the following trucks, truck tractors, and buses:

Vehicles with GVWR, GCWR, or gross vehicle weight over 10,000 lb
Buses for compensation with over 8 persons and non-compensation buses with over 15
Vehicles transporting hazardous material require placards

Fire Extinguisher

All buses, trucks, and tractors require a portable fire extinguisher for compliance with FMCSA. A 10-B:C unit is required for vehicles with hazardous materials and 5-B:C for all others. An extinguishing agent that doesn’t freeze is required, and each unit must be secured in a manner that prevents sliding, rolling, and vertical movement. Fire extinguishers must be mounted and securely mounted in an easy-to-access location.

Emergency Reflective Triangles

The FMCSA requires warning devices for stopped vehicles. Although flares are acceptable, the following equipment is most commonly carried on each vehicle, as a minimum, for compliance:

At least 3 bidirectional emergency reflective triangles (P/N TKB1)

Spare Fuses – All vehicle operational fuses

DOT Reflector Tape is required on key areas of the Tractor/Truck and Trailer, and is often overlooked – DOT Reflector Tape Requirements

Wheel Chocks – can be required under certain conditions

Wheel chocks (P/N HDLWC) are typically carried on all commercial motor vehicles to prevent accidental movement while vehicles are parked and during loading and unloading. Chocks are used against the rear tires in the direction of the grade. On even surfaces, chocks are placed on both sides of the tires. Chocks should always be used in pairs. Note: The law states that air-braked power units (made on or before March 1975) are enough to keep a commercial motor vehicle from moving during the loading and unloading process. However, the FMCSA does require blocks or chocks for all agricultural commodity trailers, pulpwood trailers, and heavy haulers.

First Aid Kits

The FMCSA does not mandate first aid kits, but many states do require them. Even when not mandated, a first aid kit to match the maximum number of vehicle occupants (passengers plus driver) is a smart idea. Others will appreciate your knowledge of the federal safety requirements and your recommendations for products and equipment that will help ensure the safety of vehicles, passengers, and drivers.

Reflective Drivers Vest

The FMCSA does not currently mandate a driver’s reflective vest, but they can be a lifesaver when stepping out on a busy highway, loading, and unloading and a vest can be purchased for as little 7 to 10 dollars.

IMPORTANT: We strive to deliver precise and current information. It is advisable to verify with your State Department of Transportation and the United States Department of Transportation for any changes in policy and updates.

For additional information:

https://csa.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyplanner/