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The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has announced that the next annual Brake Safety Week will take place August 24 - 30, as part of its Operation Airbrake Program. Operation Airbrake is an initiative focused on improving brake safety in commercial motor vehicles across North America. The program educates drivers, mechanics, owner-operators, and other industry stakeholders on the critical importance of proper brake inspection, maintenance, and operation. Brake Safety Week is a critical initiative for improving commercial motor vehicle safety by inspecting brake systems and ensuring compliance with regulations.

During Brake Safety Week, CVSA-certified inspectors will conduct routine CMV (typically Level IV) inspections across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. These inspections will focus heavily on brake system components to identify any violations that could compromise vehicle safety. Any vehicles found with critical brake-related out-of-service violations (as well as other violations) will be placed out of service until the issues are resolved. In 2024, 2,154 out of 16,725 inspected trucks were rendered out-of-service due to brake violations, which came to a 12.8% out-of-service rate.

Brake systems in semi-trucks are complex and operate under intense conditions, which makes them vulnerable to a range of issues. Although all brake linings will wear down over time from friction and require regular maintenance, sometimes there is more to a malfunctioning brake system. One of the most common issues is brake hose and line leaks, which are typically accompanied by a distinctive hissing sound. Semi-truck air brake systems rely on compressed air to work properly; any leaks in the hoses, lines, or fittings can reduce air pressure and brake effectiveness.

Another common complication is contaminated brake linings. Oil, grease, or road debris can contaminate brake linings, reducing the friction that is necessary for proper function and increasing stopping distance. Brake components can also overheat with heavy or prolonged usage. This excessive heat can degrade friction and lead to brake fade. Other problems to watch out for include damaged brake drums or rotors, brake imbalance, corrosion or rust, compressor failure, and falling out of adjustment.

The CVSA has identified the condition of the brake drum and rotor as this year’s focus area. You can review key tips on brake drum and rotor maintenance from the CVSA here. Inspectors will collect and report data on the physical condition of brake drums and rotors. Excessive wear, heat cracks, and contamination on these components can indicate underlying mechanical issues or poor maintenance. This targeted focus reinforces the importance of conducting thorough inspections of the entire brake system.

If you haven’t already prepared for the event, now is the time to get started! Your preparation should include conducting regular pre-trip inspections, checking for audible air leaks, testing air pressure, measuring brake pad and lining thickness, and examining drums and rotors for visible damage or wear. Keep up-to-date maintenance records in your vehicle and ensure you’re clear of other standard inspection violations. If you’re due, schedule a preventive maintenance check with certified technicians to ensure all brake components meet federal safety standards.

Brake-related violations continue to be one of the top reasons commercial vehicles are placed out of service during roadside inspections. Faulty or poorly maintained brakes significantly increase stopping distance and the risk of crashes, particularly for heavy trucks operating at highway speeds. According to 2021 data from the FMCSA, vehicle-related problems were found as factors in 4% of fatal crashes involving large trucks, with 1% specifically involved “brake system” issues. The campaign helps protect truck drivers and other motorists by removing unsafe vehicles from the road. It’s also a great opportunity for you as a driver to refresh your knowledge of brake system issues and learn how to identify them quickly!

By taking the time to prepare and prioritize brake system maintenance, commercial drivers can avoid costly violations, prevent breakdowns, and do their part in improving overall roadway safety. Brake Safety Week is more than just a regulatory event. It’s a vital reminder of the essential role that functioning brakes play in your safety as a trucker and that of all motorists!