Vehicle inspections are a critical part of a truck driver’s daily safety and maintenance routine. In Canada, drivers are required to complete and file a driver vehicle inspection report (DVIR) each day. U.S.-based drivers are also mandated to complete a DVIR, but they do not have to be formally filed if no defect is found.
Truckers are human beings, and even the most safety-conscious drivers can make a mistake or forget a step if they are doing it on their own. Of course, a proper inspection could mean finding a small problem before it becomes a major headache and results in hours of unplanned downtime later.
What is a ‘Smart’ DVIR?
Knowing the negative impact an incomplete inspection can have, why not equip drivers with a tool to make everything simple, from preparing for inspections to tracking hours-of-service? That’s where the ISAAC’s solution comes in; helping to increase safety and limit risk while ensuring compliance with all regulations.
ISAAC’s Smart DVIR tool allows drivers to fill out their DVIR reports with only a few clicks on a tablet. Fleets can customize tasks in a driver’s electronic logging device (ELD). This ensures inspection points are covered and drivers do not need to use a paper list. The ISAAC solution automatically flags vehicles that might have missed or bypassed inspection reports.
When drivers detect a vehicle defect during the inspection, they can capture photos with the tablet. The ISAAC solution also helps speed up any needed repairs by instantly informing your maintenance department of any defects.
What if a problem arises on the highway?
Even if a pre-trip inspection does not reveal a defect, something could go wrong while out on delivery. With the ISAAC solution, a driver can document a problem after it’s discovered without having to conduct a new DVIR. They only need to add an en route defect to the current DVIR.
Meanwhile, once an existing DVIR is updated, the back office receives a real-time alert. That helps dispatch and the maintenance team assess the severity of a situation, minimizing any downtime.
Fleet managers can review automated reports to pinpoint the lower performing trucks and take steps to proactively avoid future downtime. Likewise, safety managers can access reports they need to manage compliance requirements.
Creating a stress-free roadside inspection
The ISAAC solution ensures drivers are always ready for a roadside inspection. The solution is “activity-based,” so every time a driver completes a task there is an automatic update. That guarantees drivers remain compliant with HOS regulations, regardless of location.
In addition, the wireless tablet can be used outside the truck to easily share reports with law enforcement. This makes inspections stress-free for the driver, helping them get back on the road faster.
The Covid-19 pandemic has led to a decrease in the total number of roadside inspections across North America. However, it is likely the frequency of inspections will increase again, making it more likely your fleet’s vehicles will be checked more often.
Any serious violation could lead to an out-of-service order, resulting in lost revenue and inferior CSA scores. Even minor violations can lead to unplanned downtime. During 2021, inoperable lamps were the most frequent vehicle violation, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Another frequent violation was operating a commercial vehicle without a periodic inspection.
The easiest way to avoid any of these violations and to avoid downtime is to catch any possible issues as soon as they happen. See how ISAAC can help your drivers.
About the author
Neil Abt
VP Public Relations, ISAAC Instruments
Neil Abt, Vice President of Public Relations at ISAAC Instruments, is a veteran journalist with over 25 years of reporting experience, including 20 years spent covering the trucking industry. A graduate of American University in Washington, D.C., he began his career covering sports for The Washington Post, followed by a position in the newsroom of America Online (AOL) and then both reporting and leadership roles at Transport Topics and Fleet Owner. Neil is based out of Portland, Oregon.
