Pre-trip inspection with a brake warning and a leaking seal
Before a run, a driver does a walk-around of a heavy rigid truck. Findings: the low air-pressure warning buzzer sounds and does not stop until the engine has run for several minutes; there is fresh oil mist on the inside of the left rear dual tyres; one tail-light is cracked but still working; the tyre tread on the steer axle is 2.8 mm; and the load restraint straps look frayed but are still holding. The driver is under time pressure and considers noting the issues for the next driver.
1. Classify each finding as a major defect, minor defect or no defect, and state what the driver must do.
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Classification and action:
- Low air-pressure warning sounding until pressure builds: this is normal during start-up as the system charges, but if the warning persists or the system does not reach operating pressure, it is a major defect (brake system). The driver must confirm pressure builds to the correct operating range and the warning stops; if not, the vehicle must not be driven.
- Oil mist on the inside of the left rear duals: indicates a leaking wheel seal or hub, a major defect - oil can contaminate brake linings and the wheel can fail. Do not drive until inspected and repaired.
- Cracked but working tail-light: a minor defect if the light still functions; it should be recorded and repaired, but it does not by itself make the vehicle unsafe to drive.
- Steer axle tread at 2.8 mm: heavy vehicle steer tyres must have at least 1.5 mm tread across the tread face in a continuous band, so 2.8 mm is legal but wearing; note it for monitoring. If it were below the minimum it would be a major defect.
- Frayed restraint straps still holding: a major defect if the strap's integrity is compromised - a frayed strap can fail under load. Replace before loading.
Action: the driver must not simply note the issues for the next driver. Major defects mean the vehicle is not to be driven until repaired; minor defects must be recorded and reported.
2. What is the driver's reporting and record-keeping obligation for these defects?
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The driver must:
- Record the defects in the vehicle's defect record (defect book or electronic system), including the date, the defect, and the driver's assessment of severity.
- Report major defects to the operator immediately and ensure the vehicle is not used until repaired and cleared.
- Not drive a vehicle with a major defect - the driver is responsible for the vehicle's safety, regardless of time pressure.
- Ensure minor defects are scheduled for repair and that the record shows they were actioned.
- Complete the pre-start inspection properly each day, not retrospectively.
The operator must have a system for recording, assessing and repairing defects, and the driver must follow it. Passing the problem to the next driver without recording it is a breach of the driver's duties and leaves the operator and driver exposed to penalties.