CVSA 2024 International Roadcheck May 14-16 Focused on drug and alcohol possession, tractor protection systems

While checking for the presence of alcohol or controlled substances during an inspection, inspectors will: Observe the driver for signs of alcohol or controlled substance; use and/or impairment; Examine the cab and trailer for alcohol or controlled substances; Conduct a query in the Clearinghouse.

With spring comes May showers, beautiful flowers, and inspection blitzes!

That’s right, the annual 72-hour International Roadcheck, conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA),  is a high-visibility reminder of the importance of commercial motor vehicle safety.

It is the largest targeted enforcement program on commercial motor vehicles in the world, with nearly 15 trucks or buses inspected, on average, every minute across North America!

This year is an interesting inspection focus. Let’s see what it is!

Review some of the CVSA Inspection Results from 2023

DOT inspection focus for 2024 International Roadcheck

Primarily, the International Roadcheck conducts the North American Standard (NAS) Level I Inspection, which includes 37 steps in two main inspection categories:

• driver operating requirements
• vehicle mechanical fitness
• Note: hazardous materials/dangerous goods are sometimes part of a Level I inspection

Depending on other factors, an inspector could conduct a:

• Level II inspection (walk-around driver/vehicle)
• Level III inspection (driver/credential/administrative) and/or
• Level IV inspection (vehicle-only)

Each year, there is also a special category focus. For 2024, the CVSA Roadcheck will focus on Controlled Substance and Alcohol Possession and Tractor Protection and Anti-Bleed Back Systems.

Controlled substance and alcohol possession by commercial motor vehicle drivers is a significant concern.

In addition, the number of prohibited drivers in the U.S. Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH) is increasing. This alarming trend poses a threat to all motorists on our roadways.

While checking for the presence of alcohol or controlled substances during an inspection, inspectors will:

• Observe the driver for signs of alcohol or controlled substance use and/or impairment.
• Examine the cab and trailer for alcohol or controlled substances.
• Conduct a query in the DACH (for inspections in the U.S.).

[Related: Managers need trained on DOR reasonable suspicion and signs/symptoms training? Look no further!]

A commercial motor vehicle’s tractor protection system consists of a tractor protection valve, trailer supply valve and anti-bleed back valve.

All valves should be properly tested during a driver’s trip inspection and an inspector’s roadside inspection.

During the inspection of tractor protection system components, the inspector will:

• Direct the driver to release all brakes by pressing dash valves.
• Have the driver carefully remove the gladhands and allow air to escape.
• Ensure the air stops leaking from the supply line with at least 20 psi remaining.
• Listen and/or feel for any 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.

What to expect during the CVSA International Roadcheck

At a minimum, drivers should anticipate the following procedures during a roadside DOT inspection:

• inspector greeting, interview, driver preparation
• collection/verification of driver documents
• motor carrier ID
• license examination
• records check (duty status and periodic inspection reports)
• certification check (if needed)
  • Medical Examiner’s Certificate
  • Skill Performance Evaluation Certification, and
  • daily vehicle inspection report
• other inspections such as driver seat belt usage, illness, fatigue, impairments due to substance use

A roadside DOT inspection would include critical components such as:

• brake systems
• cargo securement
• coupling devices
• driveline/driveshaft components
• driver’s seat (missing)
• exhaust systems
• frames
• fuel systems
• lighting devices
• steering mechanisms
• suspension system
• tires
• van and open-top trailer bodies
• wheels, rims, and hubs
• windshield wipers
• Buses, motor coaches, passenger vans or other passenger-carrying vehicles: emergency exits, electrical cables and systems in engine and battery compartments, and temporary and aisle seating

Although this 3-day event spanning from Canada to Mexico intensifies the frequency of inspections, it’s crucial to remember that DOT inspections happen every day of the year.

Obeying safety standards and being prepared for inspection at any time of the year is a vital aspect of any driver’s protocol.

What are CVSA Standards for critical violations?

The basis for violations comes from the CVSA North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria.

Out-of-service orders and the number, type and severity of safety violations affect a motor carrier’s Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) score and its Safety Fitness Determination (SFD) rating.

DOT Audits: We can perform a mock audit for you

You can stay ahead of the FMCSA by ensuring your drivers are in compliance before sending them out on the road.

We offer many services, but one specifically—DOT Mock Audits—help trucking companies operate with the confidence that they will pass any audits or inspections the FMCSA throws at them.

Basically, in a DOT Mock Audit, we send out a specialist that will conduct an audit in the exact same way a DOT officer would. This can help keep you prepared for any surprise roadside inspection or any future actual DOT audits, and you can be sure that they will happen.

All CNS services are geared toward keeping your trucking company safe and compliant so that you stay on the road and pass all DOT inspections.

For any assistance related to DOT Audits, call (888) 260-9448 or email at info@cnsprotects.com.