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Application
It is the carrier’s responsibility to maintain all public service vehicles and regulated vehicles that are not public service vehicles in a safe operating condition. This includes repairing all defects listed on daily trip inspection reports and manufacturer’s notices, and establishing a preventative maintenance program.
Although specific requirements are not stated within the Highway Traffic Act, the general policy is for carriers to comply with the maintenance requirements of the National Safety Code, as outlined below.
Requirements
When aware of a notice of defect issued by the manufacturer of a public service vehicle or a regulated vehicle that is not a public service vehicle, the carrier must, without delay, repair the defect in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Vehicle inspections, repairs and maintenance activities must be performed in accordance with the carrier’s scheduled maintenance program and the equipment and mechanical fitness standards set out in Manitoba’s “Vehicle Inspection Handbook.” In general, these standards require all vehicle parts and accessories to be securely mounted in position, fully operative, free from damage or excessive wear, and maintained in a manner to prevent hazards to people and other vehicles.
Recordkeeping
Maintenance records, which include the following information for each vehicle, must be kept by the carrier for a period of two years or for six months after the sale of the vehicle.
- Vehicle make, serial number, year, tire size and company identification number (if applicable);
- Nature and date of scheduled inspection and maintenance activity;
- Nature and date of actual inspection and maintenance activity;
- Record of lubrication; and
- Modifications of the axles or suspension which may alter the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating or gross axle weight rating.
Motor carriers must also keep notices of defects issued by the vehicle manufacturer, as well as proof of the defect repair.
Law
Highway Traffic Act, Sections 318.7(1)-(3)