Vehicle Inspection and Load Securing Flashcards

What is the purpose of the vehicle's speed limiter on a truck or bus?

Answer: To electronically limit maximum vehicle speed — trucks to 90 km/h and buses to 100 km/h in Ireland

Speed limiters are mandatory on trucks over 3.5 tonnes and buses. In Ireland, trucks are limited to 90 km/h and buses to 100 km/h. Tampering with or disabling a speed limiter is an offence.

What should a driver do if they discover a defect in the brakes during a journey (not just pre-trip)?

Answer: Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible, report to the operator, and do not continue until the fault is assessed

A brake defect discovered mid-journey requires an immediate safe stop. Do not continue driving — brakes are safety-critical. Report to the operator and wait for recovery or repair.

What is the role of a 'transport manager' in relation to vehicle roadworthiness?

Answer: They hold legal responsibility for ensuring the operator's vehicles are maintained roadworthy and records are kept

The transport manager holds a Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and bears personal legal responsibility for the operator's compliance with roadworthiness, tachograph, and driver hours requirements.

What is the maximum height for a standard commercial vehicle in Ireland?

Answer: 4.65 metres — this applies to all standard vehicles; loads must not exceed this without a special route survey

The standard maximum vehicle height in Ireland is 4.65 metres. Drivers must be aware of low bridge heights on their route. Some roads and bridges have restrictions well below this maximum.

What is the purpose of checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, power steering, washer) before starting a commercial vehicle?

Answer: Low fluids can cause sudden mechanical failure — finding problems before departure is safer and less costly than a breakdown on the road

Commercial vehicles operating under heavy loads cover large distances. Running low on engine oil, coolant, or power steering fluid can cause sudden catastrophic failure. Pre-journey checks prevent expensive roadside incidents.

If a truck is found to be overweight at a weigh station, what can happen?

Answer: The vehicle may be prohibited from continuing, the driver and operator can be prosecuted, and a fine calculated on the excess weight may be issued

Overweight vehicles can be prohibited at weigh stations. Fines are calculated on the degree of overloading. Both driver and operator face prosecution. The driver has a personal obligation to avoid overloading regardless of who loaded the vehicle.