Heavy Truck Repairs in Quebec: What Regulations Should You Know?
In Canada, all heavy truck repairs must follow the standards laid down in the National Safety Code (NSC). These are the minimum performance standards that need to be met in a province. It is the provinces that enforce the rules for vehicle maintenance and inspection. So, when it comes to Quebec truck repair regulations, you should follow the standards specific to the La Belle Province.
Mandatory Heavy Truck Mechanical Maintenance
Quebec regulations require owners to have their heavy trucks complete mechanical maintenance at least once every 6 months. This maintenance session must ensure that all corrections are made to prevent any potential mechanical issues. It is important to note that mandatory mechanical maintenance is different from mandatory periodic mechanical inspection to be performed by the SAAQ.
Mandatory maintenance covers all heavy truck repairs in Quebec to maintain the vehicle in good working condition. It is the vehicle owner’s responsibility to ensure that the maintenance is performed properly and at regular intervals.
Major & Minor Mechanical Defects in Your Heavy Truck
If any major defects are detected in your heavy truck, it cannot be operated. Quebec regulations require that the vehicle be fully repaired before it can be driven. In case any minor defects are detected, they should be fixed within 48 hours. The law says that the vehicle cannot be operated otherwise.
All the repairs performed on your vehicle must be listed on its maintenance sheet. It is essential to mention all the heavy truck repair tasks completed in the vehicle maintenance record. The information on the maintenance sheets must be retained for a period of the last 2 years the truck was in use.
Records of Heavy Truck Brake & Tire Measurements
There are also commercial vehicle maintenance regulations in Quebec for brake and tire measurements. Heavy truck owners are required to measure their vehicles’ brakes every 6 months. The measurements must be entered in the Registre de mesures de freins et de pneus. Recording tire measurements is given as an option.
These steps allow you to keep track of wear between different inspections. This can further help detect any appearance of abnormal wear.
How Does the Quebec Bill 430 Affect Heavy Truck Repairs?
Quebec Bill 430 was introduced in 2000 and covers all areas of the transport industry related to the ownership and operation of vehicles having a 4,500kg or more GVWR. The bill addresses mechanical maintenance, record keeping, and the driver’s conduct.
Interestingly, many heavy truck owners and operators are unaware of this bill. Ensuring compliance can help you avoid penalties and heavy fines.
Choosing the Right Heavy Truck Repair Shop in Quebec
When it comes to commercial vehicle maintenance in Quebec, it is recommended to choose mechanics with extensive training. They should master all aspects of Bill 430 and perform all relevant repairs, maintenance, and record keeping.
The ideal heavy truck repairs shop in Quebec should be able to complete all relevant maintenance and inspections. When your heavy truck’s records are well-maintained, it can help you keep a clean record as an owner or operator. Additionally, it can also help save money while creating a better work environment for your drivers.
Conclusion
The objective behind Quebec truck repair regulations is to increase overall safety. When you ensure compliance with the law, you will not only be ensuring safety but also preventing potential breakdowns. The above-mentioned steps can also help you in your mission to operate a successful transport operation.
Proper and timely heavy truck repairs and maintenance in Quebec can, thus, go a long way in helping your business succeed. The additional benefits of following the laws include convenience and complete peace of mind.
