REGINA, Sask. — The results of Operation Air Brake are in, and the numbers are reason for optimism within the trucking industry.

While more jurisdictions participated and more inspections were held throughout North America, the rate and severity of violations were down from previous years.

The 12-hour inspection blitz was held Sept. 5 in Canada and the U.S., by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) and the Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators (CCMTA).

The blitz resulted in the inspection of 12,875 rigs and buses. Only 10.8 per cent of units were placed out-of-service because of brake adjustment violations, compared to 13.3 per cent last year.

Meanwhile, 15.8 per cent of inspected units were placed out-of-service for non-adjustment brake-related defects, down from 17.8 per cent in 2001.

John Meed, program manager for Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation, says “One of the most important persons for ensuring proper brake operation and safety is the driver. If the driver takes a few minutes to check brake adjustment during a pre-trip inspection, it could prevent a serious accident.”