The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is set to conduct its highly anticipated International Roadcheck from May 14-16, 2024. This significant event marks a concerted effort across North America to enhance the safety and compliance of the commercial transportation industry. During this three-day period, enforcement officials in Canada, Mexico, and the United States will engage in a rigorous inspection and regulatory compliance drive aimed at ensuring the safety of commercial motor vehicles operating across international borders.
Objective and Scope of the International Roadcheck
The International Roadcheck serves as a cornerstone of CVSA’s commitment to enhancing transportation safety on a global scale. Over the course of 72 hours, CVSA-certified inspectors will execute high-volume, high-visibility inspections at key weigh/inspection stations, designated temporary sites, and through mobile patrol units. These inspections are meticulously designed to affirm compliance with the stringent safety regulations established by federal, state, and provincial/territorial bodies.
2024 Focus: Enhancing Tractor Protection Systems and Curtailing Substance Abuse
Each year, the Roadcheck initiative underscores specific areas of concern within the commercial vehicle sector. For 2024, the spotlight is on two critical issues: the integrity of tractor protection systems and the enforcement against alcohol and controlled substance possession among drivers.
The increasing instances of drivers listed in the U.S. Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH) present a troubling trend that poses significant risks to roadway safety. In response, the CVSA emphasizes the need for stringent enforcement of no-tolerance policies pertaining to controlled substance and alcohol possession/use within the transportation industry. This focus aims to remind and reinforce among motor carriers the importance of establishing and maintaining clear, strict guidelines to prevent substance misuse in the workplace.
Simultaneously, this year’s Roadcheck will concentrate on the operational condition of tractor protection systems, including critical components such as the tractor protection valve, trailer supply valve, and anti-bleed back valve. These components are vital for the safe operation of commercial vehicles, yet they are frequently overlooked during regular inspections. To aid drivers and motor carriers in the proactive maintenance of these systems, the CVSA has issued a detailed inspection bulletin, available in English, French, and Spanish, delineating the proper inspection procedures for these components.
Comprehensive Inspection Processes
During the International Roadcheck, inspectors will carry out the North American Standard Level I Inspection, a comprehensive 37-step procedure that thoroughly evaluates both the vehicle’s mechanical soundness and the driver’s adherence to operational standards. This includes a detailed review of the vehicle’s brake systems, cargo securement, coupling devices, and more, along with checks on the driver’s operating credentials and sobriety.
A successful pass in the Level I or V Inspection without any critical item violations results in the issuance of a CVSA decal, valid for three months, which signifies compliance with the stringent inspection standards. Conversely, vehicles or drivers found with out-of-service violations will be prohibited from operating until those deficiencies are rectified.
Adaptability in Inspection Protocols
Recognizing the potential for inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances, inspectors may alternatively conduct a Level II Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection or a Level III Driver/Credential/Administrative Inspection. These inspections, while thorough, do not qualify for a CVSA decal but are integral to maintaining high standards of safety and compliance.
About CVSA
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance is an esteemed non-profit organization, comprising local, state, provincial, territorial, and federal commercial motor vehicle safety officials and industry representatives. The Alliance’s mission is to prevent commercial motor vehicle crashes, injuries, and fatalities while fostering a cooperative environment between governmental agencies and the commercial vehicle industry. By providing guidance, education, and advocacy, CVSA plays a pivotal role in improving road safety and ensuring that the industry adheres to the highest safety standards possible.
For more information about the 2024 International Roadcheck and CVSA’s ongoing efforts to enhance commercial vehicle safety, please visit our official website or contact our communications office.
