Pre-Trip Inspection Procedures
Follow these detailed procedures before beginning your workday to ensure your dump truck is safe, compliant, and ready for operation. A thorough pre-trip inspection helps prevent breakdowns and accidents while meeting regulatory requirements.
Engine Compartment Inspection
- Park on level surface and set parking brake
- Ensure engine is cold for accurate fluid readings
- Check engine oil level with dipstick
- Inspect coolant level in reservoir
- Check power steering and transmission fluid levels
- Inspect belts for cracks, fraying, or proper tension
- Check hoses for leaks, bulges, or wear spots
- Inspect battery connections for corrosion
Air Brake System Check
- Start engine and allow air system to build to operating pressure
- Verify gauge reading between 90-125 psi
- Turn off engine, apply foot brake and hold for 1 minute
- Observe pressure drop (should not exceed 3 psi)
- Restart engine and place in neutral
- Test low air warning device by pumping brake pedal
- Warning should activate at approximately 60 psi
- Check spring brake activation (should apply by 20-45 psi)
Tire & Wheel Inspection
- Check tire pressure with accurate gauge
- Measure tread depth (minimum 4/32" for steer tires)
- Inspect tire sidewalls for cuts, bulges, or damage
- Verify all valve stems have caps
- Check for objects lodged between dual tires
- Inspect wheels/rims for cracks or damage
- Verify all lug nuts are present and tight
- Check for signs of leaking wheel seals
Dump Body & Hydraulic Inspection
- Check hydraulic fluid level in reservoir
- Inspect hydraulic hoses for leaks, wear or kinks
- Examine dump body for cracks or damage
- Check body mounting hardware for tightness
- Inspect tailgate operation and locking mechanisms
- Check dump body hinges for excessive wear
- Verify safety prop/body stop is functional
- If equipped, inspect tarp system for damage
Operational Testing Procedures
After completing the visual inspection, perform these operational tests to verify all systems function correctly before beginning your route or workday.
Engine Start & System Check
- Verify transmission is in neutral or park
- Start engine and observe for smooth operation
- Check for abnormal engine noise or excessive smoke
- Verify oil pressure gauge shows normal reading
- Check that battery/alternator gauge shows charging
- Test all dashboard warning lights and gauges
- Allow engine to reach operating temperature
- Listen for unusual sounds during warm-up
Lighting & Visibility Test
- Test headlights (high and low beams)
- Verify turn signals (front, sides, rear)
- Check 4-way hazard flashers
- Test brake lights and tail lights
- Check clearance and marker lights
- Verify backup lights and alarm functionality
- Test windshield wipers and washers
- Adjust mirrors for proper visibility
Hydraulic System Test
- Ensure area above truck is clear of obstructions
- Verify no personnel are near the truck
- Engage PTO or hydraulic system
- Slowly raise dump body to full extension
- Check for smooth, controlled operation
- Verify "body up" warning light functions
- Lower body slowly, checking for control
- Listen for unusual noises during operation
Brake & Steering Test
- Release parking brake
- Move truck forward slowly
- Test service brakes for response and stopping ability
- Check for pulling to either side during braking
- Test steering for excessive play or binding
- Check steering response in both directions
- Apply parking brake and verify it holds vehicle
- Test service horn and backup alarm
Post-Trip Inspection Procedures
Complete these procedures at the end of your work shift to identify any issues that developed during operation and to prepare the vehicle for the next driver or shift.
End-of-Day Exterior Inspection
- Park in designated area on level ground
- Set parking brake and shut down engine
- Walk around vehicle and note new damage
- Inspect tires for cuts or damage from day's operation
- Check for fluid leaks under vehicle
- Inspect dump body for damage or material buildup
- Verify tailgate is secure and not leaking
- Check for loose hardware or components
Hydraulic & Mechanical Assessment
- Check hydraulic components for new leaks
- Inspect hydraulic cylinders for damage
- Look for signs of overheating on components
- Check for broken springs or suspension issues
- Inspect air lines for damage or chafing
- Verify brake system maintains pressure
- Check steering components for problems
- Inspect frame for new cracks or damage
Documentation & Reporting
- Record ending odometer reading
- Document all defects discovered
- Note service or repair requirements
- Report safety-critical issues immediately
- Complete and sign Driver Vehicle Inspection Report
- Submit report to appropriate personnel
- Communicate any concerns to next operator
- Retain copy of report as required by regulations
Securing the Vehicle
- Ensure dump body is completely lowered
- Verify tailgate is closed and locked
- Remove all trash and personal items from cab
- Secure all doors and windows
- Turn off all electrical accessories
- If applicable, complete fuel log
- Apply steering wheel lock if required
- Return keys to designated location
Regulatory Compliance Procedures
These procedures ensure your dump truck inspection meets DOT and FMCSA requirements, helping you avoid violations and operate legally.
Required Documentation
- Verify current registration is in vehicle
- Confirm insurance documents are present and valid
- Check that DVIR forms are available
- Ensure previous DVIR is reviewed and signed
- Verify driver's license with proper endorsements
- Confirm medical certificate is current
- Check Hours of Service logs are current
- Verify any required permits are in vehicle
FMCSA Compliance Check
- Confirm all required lights are functioning
- Verify reflective tape/reflectors are present
- Check that DOT numbers are displayed correctly
- Ensure GVWR information is visible
- Verify tire tread depth meets minimum standards
- Confirm brake adjustment is within limits
- Check that cargo securement devices are adequate
- Verify load is properly distributed and secured
CDL Driver Requirements
- Perform required pre-trip inspection
- Document all inspection components properly
- Sign DVIR certification when required
- Report all defects affecting safety
- Verify previous defects were repaired
- Maintain current medical certification
- Comply with drug and alcohol testing requirements
- Maintain accurate hours of service records
Out-of-Service Criteria Awareness
- Understand brake-related OOS conditions
- Recognize steering component defect criteria
- Know tire condition OOS standards
- Identify suspension defect criteria
- Understand frame crack/damage standards
- Recognize wheel/rim defect criteria
- Know fuel system leak criteria
- Understand lighting requirement standards