New Brunswick among the best at International Roadcheck 2017
New Brunswick ranked among the top three provinces and territories for commercial vehicle safety compliance at International Roadcheck 2017, an annual 72-hour inspection event sponsored by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance.
“We want to ensure New Brunswick’s roads and highways are safe for all drivers,” said Justice and Public Safety Minister Denis Landry. “The results of this year’s International Roadcheck are encouraging, as they prove that the trucking industry continues to place an important emphasis on driver and commercial vehicle safety.”
Nearly 280 commercial vehicles were inspected during this year’s event held at roadchecks around the province. Safety and compliance reviews were conducted by Department of Justice and Public Safety officials, including officers from the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement unit, the Conservation Enforcement section, the Inspection and Investigations section, and the National Safety Code section.
Out-of-service infractions were noted on 40 commercial vehicles, or 14 per cent of those inspected. An out-of-service infraction can vary from a malfunctioning signal light to faulty steering or brakes. In most situations, drivers were able to make the necessary adjustments on site and receive a re-inspection.
Prince Edward Island and the Yukon were the only jurisdictions with higher rates of safety compliance. The national average of out-of-service commercial vehicles was 19.7 per cent.
New Brunswick was one of only five jurisdictions conducting bus inspections this year. All 19 inspected buses met the criteria for safety compliance.
“At this year’s roadcheck in Salisbury, I had the opportunity to witness firsthand the work involved in ensuring commercial vehicles are safe to operate,” said Landry. “I commend our Inspection and Enforcement staff at the Department of Justice and Public Safety on another successful event. I extend my gratitude as well to all participating partners.”
The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance holds International Roadcheck each year with participation from law enforcement agencies throughout North America. The RCMP, Transport Canada Dangerous Goods Directorate, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, the Department of Finance and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency were among the partners participating in New Brunswick.
The initiative highlights the importance of commercial vehicle safety and compliance in the trucking industry with an emphasis on safe vehicle loading and mechanical and driver fitness.
