If you are a truck operator who wants to know about the Commercial Vehicle Safety Administration International Roadcheck 2024, this article is for you. The 2024 International Roadcheck (more commonly known as DOT Blitz 2024) entails major truck inspections and enforcement efforts.
In light of this, it might raise many questions in your mind. You might wonder how the DOT Blitz 2024 will impact your operations and what you can expect differently this year. To help you out, we’ll cover all the important things about the International Roadcheck to give you a better idea about it.
History of DOT Blitz Week
DOT Blitz Week is an inspection event held by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) each year. It was first started in 1988 with the collaborative efforts of CVSA and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
The primary purpose of holding this event was to enhance the safety of the commercial vehicles. Today, the main players involved in holding the Blitz are the Department of Transportation (DOT) and CVSA. Hence, it is known as DOT Blitz Week.
These inspectors will check for several violations, just like the previous year. However, there is a special focus on on tractor protection systems and controlled substance and alcohol possession in 2024.
What To Expect From Dot Blitz 2024?
We hope you now have the answer to the question of what is the DOT Blitz Week. Now, let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from the DOT Blitz 2024. This year, two primary areas will be the key highlight:
- Tractor Protection and Anti-Bleed Back Systems
- Controlled Substance and Alcohol Possession
Tractor Protection and Anti-Bleed Back Systems
The most important focus of the DOT Blitz 2024 will be the tractor protection and anti-bleed back systems. A tractor protection system consists of a tractor protection valve, trailer supply valve and anti-bleed back valve. All valves should be properly tested during a driver’s trip inspection and an inspector’s roadside inspection.
By focusing on the tractor protection systems, DOT Blitz 2024 aims to increase awareness for drivers, motor carriers, technicians and enforcement personnel of these critically important vehicle components; specifically, the tractor protection valve, trailer supply valve and anti-bleed back valve, which may be overlooked during trip and roadside inspections. During the inspection of tractor protection system components, the inspector will:
- Ensure the wheel chocks are still in place and have the driver release all the brakes by pressing dash valves;
- Have the driver carefully remove the gladhands and allow air to escape;
- Ensure the air stops leaking from the supply line with at least 20 psi remaining;
- Listen and/or feel for any leaking air at the gladhand couplers on the trailer;
- Request a full service brake application by the driver;
- Listen and/or feel for leaks from both air lines.
Controlled Substance and Alcohol Possession
Controlled substance and alcohol possession/use remains a significant concern for motor carriers, drivers and the general public. The number of prohibited drivers listed in the U.S. Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH) has been increasing. This alarming trend poses a threat to all motorists who travel on roadways throughout North America.
DOT Blitz 2024 will serve as a reminder to motor carriers to establish and strictly enforce clear policies to prevent controlled substance and alcohol possession or use in the workplace. In addition, U.S. motor carriers should regularly query the DACH to ensure their drivers are not in prohibited status. Commercial motor vehicle drivers must adhere to their company’s policies and to not possess, use or be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances while on duty. Inspectors are reminded to be vigilant in the detection and interdiction of such driver violations during every inspection.
While checking for the presence of alcohol or controlled substances during an inspection, inspectors will:
- Observe the driver for signs of alcohol or controlled substance use and/or impairment;
- Examine the cab and trailer for alcohol or controlled substances;
- Conduct a query in the DACH.
Impact of DOT Blitz Week 2024
DOT Blitz Week helps the overall commercial vehicle industry to comply with federal laws and regulation. Moreover, it positively impacts the community since it helps drivers understand and comply with safety laws.
Additionally, it can also help spot potential trucks that are not functioning properly and remove them from the road. However, fewer trucks will be on the road during the 72-hour DOT inspection. Therefore, shippers might have to pay more to secure transportation capacity.
Conclusion
DOT Blitz 2024 is an important event for the commercial vehicle industry- it allows commercial truck drivers to learn about the possible issues with their trucks. You should definitely take a professional’s help if you don’t know how to prepare for the Blitz Week.
If you are a Nova Lines driver and need help preparing for the CVSA International Roadcheck, please contact the Nova Lines Maintenance Department at 773-633-0335.
FAQs
DOT Blitz 2024 is a yearly inspection event organized by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The primary objective of DOT Blitz 2024 is to increase the safety of commercial vehicles by conducting thorough inspections and enforcing regulations.
The exact dates of DOT Blitz Week 2024 will happen between May 14-16, 2024
The focus of DOT Blitz 2024 will be Tractor Protection and Anti-Bleed Back Systems & Controlled Substance and Alcohol Possession.