Avoiding brake failure

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Accidents due to brake failure are tragic and often fatal. They occur due to a variety of reasons. There are two basic categories of brake failure:

  • Static – Static failures occur when a vehicle is parked. An example of static failure is a parking brake not properly set, causing a vehicle to roll out of control.
  • Dynamic – Dynamic failures occur when vehicle operators lose control of mobile equipment.

Suggestions to avoid brake failure

  • Maintain mobile equipment brake systems in accordance with the original equipment manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Do not exceed original equipment manufacturer’s load limits.
  • Conduct regularly scheduled brake system examinations.
  • Test mobile equipment brake systems before the equipment is placed into service to ensure that the brakes are operational and capable of stopping the equipment.
  • Do not leave mobile equipment unattended without placing the controls in the park position and engaging the parking brake.
  • Chock or turn the wheels of the mobile equipment into a bank when parked on a grade.
  • Maintain roadways to ensure safe travel.
  • Operate mobile equipment at speeds compatible with road and weather conditions.
  • Post signs advising equipment operators of road hazards and safe speeds.
  • Operate equipment in lower gears to correspond with the particular grade.
  • Provide and wear seat belts when operating mobile equipment.

KEMI does not assume liability for the content of information contained herein. Safety and health remain your responsibility. This information is to be used for informational purposes only and not intended to be exhaustive or a substitute for proper training, supervision or manufacturers’ instructions/recommendations. KEMI, by publication of this information, does not assume liability for damage or injury arising from reliance upon it. Compliance with this information is not a guarantee or warranty that you will be in conformity with any laws or regulations nor does it ensure the absolute safety of any person, place or object, including, but not limited to, you, your occupation, employees, customers or place of business.

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