THE 2024 International Roadcheck — a high-visibility, high-volume inspection and enforcement effort conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance — is slated for May 14-16. During this annual three-day event, CVSA-certified inspectors fan out across the United States, Canada and Mexico to inspect commercial vehicles and drivers at weigh and inspection stations, as well as at designated inspection areas and along roadways. Every year, inspectors will put a special emphasis on a specific area, and this year it’s on tractor protection systems and alcohol and controlled substance possession. Trucking firms and fleet owners need to understand the scope of the inspections and be prepared for them when the time comes.
Tractor protection system
Inspectors will look at a truck’s tractor protection system, which includes the tractor protection valve, trailer supply valve and anti-bleed back valve. These systems should be tested every time before a driver starts a new trip.
TRACTOR PROTECTION SYSTEM CHECKLIST
According to the CVSA, during Roadcheck the inspector will:
- Ask the driver to release all brakes by pressing dash valves.
- Ask the driver to remove the gladhands, allowing air to escape.
- Ensure the air stops leaking from the supply line with at least 20 psi remaining.
- Check for leaking air at the gladhand couplers on the trailer.
- Request a full-service brake application by the driver.
- Listen and/or feel for leaks from both air lines.
Prohibited substances
The CVSA is putting a special emphasis on controlled substances and alcohol as the number of prohibited drivers listed in the U.S. Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH) has been on the increase. The Clearinghouse tracks a driver’s drug and alcohol tests and bars them from operating commercial vehicles after they fail a test. If they want to return to driving, they must pass a return-to-duty process that includes substance abuse treatment and a test to evaluate their readiness.
DRUG, ALCOHOL INSPECTION CHECKLIST
During the Roadcheck, inspectors will:
- Observe the driver for signs of alcohol or controlled substance use and/or impairment.
- Search the cab and trailer for alcohol or controlled substances.
- Conduct a query in the DACH (for inspections in the U.S.).
Other areas of focus
CVSA inspectors will also inspect all vehicles to ensure they are in compliance. Any truck that fails is immediately placed out of service. Those trucks may not be operated until the issues are remedied.
There are two parts to inspections:
Vehicle safety — CVSA reps will inspect the following for compliance with regulations:
- Brake systems
- Cargo securement
- Coupling device
- Driveline/driveshaft components
- Driver’s seat
- Fuel and exhaust systems
- Frames
- Lighting devices
- Steering mechanisms
- Suspensions
- Tires, wheels, rims and hubs
- Windshield wipers
Driver safety — Inspectors will check the driver’s operating credentials, hours-of-service documentation, status in the DACH, seat belt usage — and for alcohol and/or drug impairment.
The takeaway
The CVSA has a number of resources about International Roadcheck on its website. Vehicles that pass inspection will receive a CVSA decal to display. The decal is valid for three months and trucks that pass will not be subjected to additional inspections during that time.