Safety Newsletter – September 2020
The Importance of Pre and Post Trip Inspections
Pre and post trip inspections are two of the most important day to day duties of a truck driver. Completing these inspections is not only essential and required, but also crucial when it comes to identifying possible imperfections, damage, and malfunctioning parts on your truck or trailer. Identifying these possible problems not only keeps you and those on the roadways safe, but also avoids the potential of unreported damage being blamed on you.
Below is a list of important aspects of completing a pre and post trip inspection each time you are heading out on the road.
- Take your time while completing your pre and post trip inspections and do not rush. In general, 30 minutes should be enough time to accurately complete each inspection.
- Create a routine for yourself and stick to it each day. This means starting and ending your inspections in the same place each time.
- Don’t make excuses for not completing your pre and post trip inspections, no matter the situation or conditions.
- Cleanliness matters when it comes to the way that you find and leave your truck for the next driver.
- Don’t forget the tires and make sure they are inflated, the tread is at a proper depth, and the lug nuts are secured tightly.
- Secure your cargo and check it often if you are hauling goods on a flatbed or open trailer.
- Maintain your paperwork, which includes your daily logs, as well as keeping your maintenance items (medical card, driver’s license, etc.) up to date and with you.
- Report all damage immediately, no matter how minor.
