BRAKE SAFETY WEEK

The CVSA’s (Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s) Brake Safety Week (Aug 23-29) is already underway and the week-long initiative aims to highlight the importance of brake systems and proper brake maintenance, operation, and performance. It was created to reduce the number of crashes involving commercial motor vehicles resulting from brake system defects. It also allows the CVSA to gather important data on brake hoses and tubing and to remind carriers of the importance of vehicle maintenance.

Here at Erb Transport, we are very fortunate to have exceptional maintenance shops located at all of our 10 main terminals. They are equipped with industry leading technology, superior equipment, and fantastic teams of fleet maintenance staff. Many shops keep a complete stock of inventory for all Erb equipment to ensure the proper parts are on hand when needed. At our newest shop, located at our Baden terminal, we have a Safety Lane which operates daily from 3pm-11pm and is designed to encourage drivers to come for a complete inspection after fueling. Trucks will drive over one of the two pits and an Erb technician will preform a complete inspection. If there are any deficiencies, they will be reported in our system to ensure repairs are made.

We also have an outstanding team of drivers who always ensure our trucks are safe before hitting the road. Erb drivers are required to perform a Schedule 1 Inspection before leaving the yard. This involves a systematic review of the truck with a checklist of specifications from the Ministry of Transportation. Our trucks must meet or exceed requirements before heading out onto the roadways. If there are any deficiencies, drivers will report them to their local Erb shop for repairs.

Drivers are also encouraged to perform an “Erb 6-Pack Inspection.” Jim Pinder, Erb’s Senior Corporate Fleet Director says, “First thing in the morning when brakes are cold on trucks or trailers, drivers should apply six full brake applications which puts brakes into proper adjustments before the driver starts their day. You do this when the brakes are cool and the parking brakes are released.”

Brake Safety Week reminds us all sharing the road to work together and help keep each other safe. When it comes to fleet maintenance and road safety, Erb is proud to be a leader in innovation and technology. We are dedicated to going the extra mile and ensuring we go above and beyond industry standards. Thank you to our fleet maintenance teams and drivers for your efforts and commitment to keeping our roads safe.