Safe Work recently released a new report entitled, “Work-Related
Fatalities Involving Trucks, Australia, 2003-2013”, a core section of this
report outlines key focus areas to prevent fatalities. Ensuring vehicles are
braked properly appeared second from the top of this list, while ensuring that
vehicles and equipment are maintained appropriately and correctly was listed
fourth. Being the second published industry report highlighting these areas, brakes
and brake maintenance is quickly becoming a feature on the agenda of industry
leaders and regulators.
Regardless of legislation, ongoing brake maintenance should be a key
priority for owners and service management alike. With the safety of their assets,
and the lives of their staff and the general public at stake, regular brake
maintenance can help lower the instances of some of the leading causes of
accidents.
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| Scene of fatal truck crash in Adelaide - investigators suspect brake failure |
According to the NTARC (National
Truck Accident Research Centre) report titled “Major Accident Investigation
Report” (2013), 25% of all accidents are caused by speed, 12.1% through
fire losses and mechanical failure, with fatigue coming in third at 11.9%. Each
of these top three causes are shining a light on contributory brake issues.
Amidst the many recommendations
offered by the NTARC, of particular interest is their recommendation that brake
maintenance be prioritised, citing that the consequences of poor maintenance
and misuse can be fatal.
Many of these incidents, both fatal and non-fatal, can be attributed to
braking issues. As total fleet sizes experience growth, major crashes are consistently
mirroring their growth pattern. With two fatal truck accidents in as many months
dominating the media, a greater focus on transport vehicle maintenance should
be top of mind for anyone who runs or manages a fleet.
Why Test Brakes?
Safety
Put simply, we test brakes to ensure vehicles are safe to use. For drivers,
for the general public and for the client’s product that is being transported.
Legislation
While each State has their own regulations in place, it is becoming more
of a National focus from a regulatory point of view to frequently test brakes.
Liability
Regular brake testing allows the operator to keep an auditable record of
testing. In the event of a vehicle being involved in an accident, the risk of
legal action can be reduced if accurate testing information is readily
available.
Economy
Regular testing can minimise vehicle downtime in the workshop, reduce
brake lining and component wear, and can assist in decreasing tyre wear --
saving businesses time and money.
OH&S Fatigue Management
As part of the National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS)
minimising driver fatigue is a critical component. By regularly testing you can
provide a smoother ride for operators, resulting in a positive effect on driver
fatigue management.
So what can organisations do? Preventative maintenance is critical.
Having the right testing equipment means you can reduce tyre wear, improve
vehicle safety, experience fewer brake related incidents, and retain auditable
records to reduce your risk of liability.
What is the Right Choice in Brake
Testing Equipment?
Roller Brake Testers are widely considered as the most comprehensive
testing system in the industry. Using this method produces the most consistent
results across all axles. You can test one wheel at a time, review efficiency
of service, and test parking and emergency brakes.
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| In-Ground Roller Brake Testing Unit |
Greater safety is achieved with this style of testing with the single
operator system allowing control on some systems direct from the vehicle cab
via remote control. There are also a number of options to enhance the system
including speedo checking, play detectors, emission testers, headlight aimers
and noise meters. These accessories give this unit the added advantage of being
able, in some cases, to form the basis of a complete vehicle test lane.
With Levanta, you receive the following as standard:
ü
The ability
to form a full test lane and integrate with other systems,
ü
The only two
year unconditional warranty on the market,
ü
The
innovative ‘remote hands’ feature so we can remotely assist your staff,
ü
Detailed
test functions and results from the remote PDA application,
ü
A labour
saving single operator system,
ü
Pre-loaded
job queuing for increased productivity and work flow, plus
ü
Reliable
24/7 support from our manufacturer trained technicians.
Receiving national and international recognition for excellence, you can
be confident that with
Levanta you have made the right decision for your
organisations safety and maintenance needs.
Make the right choice for your business, your staff, and your clients.
Choose a Roller Brake Tester from Levanta.
