Getting ready for your Annual DOT Inspection.
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:
- Portable Fire Extinguishers – proper type, size, and rating
- Emergency Reflective Triangles – warning devices for stopped vehicles
- Wheel Chocks – prevent accidental movement of the vehicle while parked
- First Aid Kits – to match the maximum capacity of persons per vehicle
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 requiring placards
Fire Extinguishers
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. Most installations include an extinguisher in a vehicle bracket.
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)
Wheel Chocks
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 grade. On even surfaces, chocks are placed on both sides of tires. Chocks should always be used in pairs.
First Aid Kits
The FMCSA does not mandate first aid kits, but many states do require them. Even when not mandated, Brooks first aid kits are typically installed to match the maximum number of vehicle occupants (passengers plus driver). Be sure to check existing first aid kits for proper contents and replace depleted kits after getting the owner’s consent. Every commercial motor vehicle should carry a complement of the right safety equipment. 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.
For more additional information: https://csa.fmcsa.dot.gov/safetyplanner/
