Detailed Inspection Procedures
Follow these step-by-step procedures for key inspection areas on your tanker truck to ensure thoroughness and compliance with DOT regulations. Daily tanker truck inspections are essential for ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in hazardous material transportation operations.
- Verify vehicle registration is current and accessible
- Check that insurance documents are current and accessible
- Confirm hazmat permits/licenses are current and valid
- Review previous inspection reports for unresolved issues
- Ensure emergency response guidebook is present
- Verify proper shipping papers/bill of lading are present
- Check driver's credentials (CDL with proper endorsements)
- Confirm hours of service logs are up-to-date
- Verify weight and measurement certificates if applicable
- Ensure route planning documents and permits are available
- Inspect windshield for cracks, cleanliness, and clear visibility
- Check mirrors are secure, adjusted properly, and clean
- Test wipers and washer fluid for proper function
- Verify all lights function: headlights, turn signals, markers
- Confirm DOT numbers and placards are visible and correct
- Inspect steps and handholds are secure and undamaged
- Check door seals and latches for proper operation
- Examine external cab damage, dents, or rust issues
- Inspect license plates for visibility and proper mounting
- Check antenna and communication equipment if installed
- Check engine oil level using the dipstick
- Verify coolant level in the reservoir
- Inspect power steering fluid level
- Check windshield washer fluid level
- Examine belts and hoses for condition and tension
- Inspect air compressor for security and leaks
- Check battery is secure with clean connections
- Examine wiring for exposed wires or loose connections
- Verify air filter is clean and properly installed
- Inspect for fluid leaks on engine or ground
- Verify air brake pressure builds to operating range
- Inspect air lines for leaks, secure mounting, and damage
- Check brake drums/rotors for cracks or damage
- Inspect brake pads/shoes for adequate thickness
- Verify slack adjusters are properly adjusted
- Test emergency brake functionality
- Drain air tanks to check for moisture
- Test low air warning devices
- Perform air leakage rate test (static and applied)
- Check brake adjustment during applied brake check
- Examine tank shell for dents, cracks, or corrosion
- Check tank supports and anchors are secure and undamaged
- Inspect manholes and covers for security and intact gaskets
- Check baffles for damage if accessible
- Verify rollover protection is intact and undamaged
- Inspect underside of tank for damage or leaks
- Confirm tank markings and placards are correct and legible
- Check tank straps and mounting hardware for tightness
- Inspect for unauthorized repairs or modifications
- Check vent mechanisms for proper operation
- Test valves for proper operation and check for leaks
- Verify pumps are operational if equipped
- Inspect hoses for cracks and secure connections
- Check gaskets and seals are intact and undamaged
- Verify dome covers are secure with intact seals
- Test pressure/vacuum relief valves for functionality
- Inspect vapor recovery system for operation and leaks
- Check hose couplings and fittings for wear or damage
- Verify proper grounding points are clean and functional
- Inspect protective caps and plugs for damage
- Verify fire extinguisher is charged, accessible, and inspected
- Check emergency triangles are complete and accessible
- Inspect spill kit for completeness and accessibility
- Verify PPE is appropriate for cargo and in good condition
- Check first aid kit is complete and accessible
- Test communication equipment for functionality
- Verify emergency shutdown systems are operational
- Check wheel chocks are available and in good condition
- Inspect eye wash station if mounted on vehicle
- Verify required hazmat placards are in place and legible
- Start engine and check for excessive smoke or noise
- Verify air pressure buildup time is within acceptable limits
- Measure air leakage rate in both static and applied positions
- Test low air warning devices for proper function
- Perform parking brake and service brake tests
- Check steering for excessive play or binding
- Verify all lights are functioning properly
- Test all instruments and gauges for proper operation
- Verify transmission engages properly in all gears
- Test horn and backup alarm for proper operation
Safety Pro Tips
- Inspect When Empty If Possible: Whenever possible, perform comprehensive inspections when the tanker is empty to allow better access and visibility of internal components.
- Check for Product-Specific Damage: Different cargoes can cause different types of wear or damage. Be particularly vigilant about potential corrosion, valve integrity, and pressure-related issues based on your cargo type.
- Document Thoroughly: Maintain detailed records of all inspections, including photos of any concerning findings. This documentation is critical for regulatory compliance and maintenance planning.
- Know Your Hazmat Requirements: Ensure you're familiar with specific regulatory requirements related to the materials you transport. Different hazardous materials have different inspection and safety protocols.
- Pre and Post-Loading Inspections: Always conduct a thorough inspection before loading and again after loading to verify the tanker's integrity under load and check for leaks when the product is present.
- Weather Considerations: Be particularly cautious of how weather conditions may affect inspection results. Extremely hot or cold weather can impact the behavior of seals, gaskets, and fluids.
Conclusion
Implementing these detailed tanker truck safety inspection procedures is essential for maintaining equipment safety, performance, and compliance with DOT regulations. By systematically following each step before operation, drivers can identify potential issues before they lead to equipment failure, hazardous material spills, accidents, or costly downtime.
For optimal inspection management, consider implementing the HVI APP (Heavy Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance software) to streamline your daily tanker truck inspections. The HVI platform allows digital documentation of inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for each vehicle in your fleet.
With the Heavy Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance software, fleet managers can easily track compliance, monitor maintenance patterns, and ensure all equipment is properly inspected. This digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on drivers and maintenance personnel.