Brake Safety Week 2025 – Keeping Crews and Communities Safe
From August 24-30, 2025, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will launch its annual Brake Safety Week, a continent-wide effort to check commercial vehicles and raise awareness about the importance of well-maintained brake’s.
What to Expect This Year
During the weeklong campaign, inspectors across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will place special attention on brake systems and components, pulling vehicles out of service if critical issues are found.
The theme for 2025 zeroes in on drums and rotors. These parts play a direct role in how well a truck or crane can slow down and stop. Cracks, missing chunks, or excessive wear can all reduce braking power and create dangerous debris on the road.
Why Brakes Deserve the Spotlight
Brake systems are the most frequently cited violation category during roadside inspections. Even a minor defect can increase stopping distance, create uneven braking, or lead to complete system failure. For heavy equipment like cranes and support trucks, that can mean risks not only to drivers but also to surrounding motorists, work crews, and job sites.
By focusing on preventive maintenance, companies can avoid costly downtime and protect their operators.
Tips for Safer Operations
In preparation for Brake Safety Week, here are a few simple but effective steps every fleet should be taking:
- Inspect drums and rotors regularly for cracks, rust, grooves, or missing pieces.
- Check brake pads and shoes to ensure they haven’t worn down to unsafe levels.
- Look for warning signs like exposed ventilation slots, metal-on-metal contact, or unusual noises.
- Review air systems by checking hoses, lines, and warning lights.
- Document inspections in your Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs) so issues don’t go overlooked.
- Address problems promptly-never wait until an inspection week to schedule service.
A Look at the Numbers
Brake Safety Week consistently shows why these checks are necessary. Last year, nearly 13% of inspected vehicles were sidelined for brake-related violations. That’s about one out of every eight trucks and trailers taken off the road. Earlier this spring, a one-day unannounced blitz also removed hundreds of vehicles for the same issues.
The data speaks for itself-brake safety is a recurring challenge across the industry.
Thackray Crane’s Commitment
At Thackray Crane, safety has always been the foundation of how we operate. Whether it’s our cranes, tractor trailers, or support vehicles, our team takes maintenance seriously so our crews can focus on getting the job done safely and efficiently.
Our mechanics and operators go the extra mile to keep every piece of equipment in top condition. From routine inspections to detailed service checks, they work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure our fleet performs safely on the road and on the job site. That dedication is one of the many reasons Thackray has been trusted for decades as the region’s leading crane and rigging company.
The Final Word
August 24-30 isn’t just another week on the calendar-it’s a chance to double down on safety, reduce risk, and keep fleets compliant. Let’s all do our part to ensure every stop is a safe one.
