Vehicle Inspection and Load Securing Flashcards

What is the purpose of a 'vehicle defect report' in professional transport operations?

Answer: A formal written record of defects found during walkaround checks — creates a legal record and triggers the repair process

A defect report is a legal document that records vehicle faults, triggers maintenance action, and creates an audit trail. Even 'nil defect' reports may be required to demonstrate the check was carried out.

What does 'axle weight' mean and why does it matter for road use?

Answer: The weight borne by each individual axle — exceeding axle weight limits damages roads and bridges and is a legal offence

Axle weight is the downward force on the road surface from each axle. Legal limits protect road infrastructure from damage. A vehicle within its GVW can still breach axle limits if the load is unevenly distributed.

What checks must be made on a vehicle's steering system during a walkaround inspection?

Answer: Check for play in the steering wheel, look for leaks from the power steering fluid reservoir and hoses, and visually inspect track rod ends and steering components

A professional driver should check for excessive play in the steering wheel (typically no more than 1/6 of a turn before the wheels begin to turn), signs of power steering fluid leaks, and visible damage to steering linkage.

How should curtainsider trailer curtains be checked as part of a load security inspection?

Answer: Check curtains are tensioned correctly on all fixing points, buckle bars are in place and tightened, and the curtain is not torn or damaged

Curtainsider curtains can form part of the load restraint system — but only if the structure is rated and the curtains are properly tensioned on all fixing points. A damaged or improperly secured curtain provides no restraint.

What is the purpose of a 'load restraint guideline' such as the Department of Transport's Code of Practice?

Answer: To provide practical guidance on calculating and applying load securing — compliance provides a strong legal defence in case of a load-related incident

Load restraint codes of practice (such as the DOT Code of Practice for Load Securing) provide practical guidance for securing various load types. Following the code provides a strong defence if challenged about load security.

Before leaving a loading bay, what final check should a truck driver make regarding the load?

Answer: Walk around the full load and confirm all straps/chains are tensioned, doors or curtains are secured, and no part of the load overhangs unsafely

Before moving, the driver must personally confirm the load is secure — regardless of who loaded it. This includes checking all lashing tensions, door locks, curtain security, and overhanging loads.