But, it’s not always the brakes that are making the noise.

Noisy trucks: it could be tyres, aerodynamic noise, body slap (when the truck goes over a bump and the chassis connects with the road) plus engine noise. Added to this if the muffler or exhaust silencer aren’t working, it may appear like the braking is the cause of the noise.

Noisy trucks – what is engine braking?

Engine braking is when the truck driver uses the engine’s resistance, rather than relying solely on the vehicle’s brakes, to slow down or control speed. The driver shifts to a lower gear, allowing the engine to help regulate speed. It is a critical practice, especially when going downhill or on windy roads. Supplementary brakes take the load off the main brakes, which can overheat or wear out more quickly if used only. Supplementary brakes are mainly used when the truck is going faster.

When can a truck driver be pulled over?

Land Transport Act 1998 gives local roading authorities the power to restrict engine braking where the speed limit is not over 70km. Police can pull a truck over if it has excessive noise.

But the level of noise depends on the size and weight of the truck and the speed it’s going. Below 50km and it’s likely to be engine noise, above 50km it’s probably the tyres.

So, determining whether it is in fact the brakes causing the noise is not straight forward.  If your truck is noisy, it’s important to find the actual source of the noise. For more information go to: nzta.govt.nz. As well, it’s important to have your brakes regularly serviced and your truck washed to get rid of grime that may increase wear and tear.

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Soap, dirt and oil end up in stormwater systems and then, depending on discharge, in rivers, streams and the sea.

Best to use commercial washing companies instead of carwashing on roads

The advice is to wash on areas that seep into the ground and soak up the water, dirt and soap. Like on gravel, unsealed road or grass. Better to use commercial washers regulated to deal with waste appropriately. Some Councils, like Napier City, have bylaws that ban car washing on driveways all together. Napier’s is to protect Ahuriri Estuary.

Some Councils issue fines and it’s only a matter of time before others follow suit.

Minimising waste to stormwater drains is our standard practice

We follow strict Council regulations for our waste water management. Proud to recycle almost all of the water used in our Christchurch and Palmerston North truck washing sites. Interceptor wastes at our other truck sites process and remove contaminants. This means sifting out the dirt and reusing the water so little if any goes to run off.

We also use biodegradable products, particularly our soaps, which we use a lot of.

Christchurch General Manager, Steve Hohaia, received an Environmental award in recognition of his site’s practices around sludge management. With thousands of tonnes of sludge contained each week, which means not sending it to waterways, and reusing 95% of the recycled water.

Newest CleanCo sites, Christchurch and Palmerston North, are clean and green, recycling 95% of water and also collecting rainwater to minimise impact on local water supply and stormwater systems.

Hefty fines may be coming for carwashing on roads or driveways

Washing your truck yourself is not an easy Sunday task. Leave it to us to do, we have the gear that streamlines the whole process. Outlawing by your local Council may be on its way any way or you could face a hefty fine.

Councils taking an education-first approach

Councils’ ‘education-first approach’ is reminding residents what happens to their water and soap etc after it’s cleaned off their vehicles. With better practices encouraged. A truck being washed on the side of the road or even the driveway is a bit harder to justify and hide!

Get in touch. We will have you back on the road in no time and you can be assured the dirt and grime will be carefully managed.

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How to avoid drinking and taking drugs

First up, plan ahead and have a designated driver to take you home. This does mean someone at the party may miss out on some of the fun. Better still get someone not involved in the function to pick you up.

If in doubt, avoid drinking and taking drugs and don’t drive

If you have your own transport (not your truck) and are going to pace yourself, learn the legal limits:

• Under 20 years: zero alcohol
• 20 years and over: 50mg/100ml blood or 250mcg/litre breath. This equals about 2-4 standard drinks for women and around 2-5 for men. But many factors can change this, for example, how big you are, how much you’ve eaten, whether you’re hydrated. As well, a standard drink is way smaller than most think. If in doubt, don’t drive,

Make a note on your phone as you grab another beer or add to your glass. Don’t leave your drink unattended as other people may top your drink up. Consider having a soft drink, juice or water in between drinks. This will help with hydration as dehydration can increase the chances of intoxification.

Good hosts will always provide food and if you are having one or two drinks, please eat. Food helps absorb alcohol and helps prevent intoxification.

Alternatives you can drink

If you decide not drinking or taking drugs is the best response have some alternatives. Worried about being teased? No alcohol beer looks like the real thing, especially when poured so if you feel comfortable, you can always ‘look the part’.   If you’re more comfortable being upfront, opt for non-alcoholic drinks, like juice or coke. Check punch, mocktails etc to make sure there’s no alcohol added.

If offered a drink or drugs a polite “no thanks, I’m driving” or “I’m the designated driver” will usually do the trick. This is a straightforward response that most people respect.

If you feel pressured, try to talk about something else, make a joke.

Increased Police patrols mean it’s best to avoid drinking and taking drugs

As above, if you decide to have one or two drinks and drive yourself be aware of increased Police patrols this summer. New laws have given Police the right to take saliva tests for four known substances: THC (cannabis) methamphetamine (meth) MDMA (ecstasy) and cocaine. As well, of course, as blood tests to read alcohol levels.

The statistics are well known, drink and drug driving causes impairment and therefore increases the likelihood of traffic accidents and infringements.

Simple message about driving

Enjoy your break-up work function, whatever form that takes, but don’t drink or take drugs and then drive.

Merry Xmas from the team at CleanCo.

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This blog offers some insights for both truck drivers and cyclists so they can understand the limitations of each and help promote safer journeys for everyone.

Obviously trucks and bikes are vastly different vehicles. A cyclist is exposed with little protection and a truck has a lot. Many New Zealand websites offer advice on road safety, truck blind spots and sharing the road.

Where are a truck’s blind spots?

(Information from DT training.)

There is no rearview mirror on a truck, so the driver cannot see immediately behind or between the truck and trailer, if there is a trailer. On the passenger side of the cab, the blind spot is the area not covered by the side mirror and often where a cyclist or pedestrian is when both are stopped at an intersection. The cyclist in the far left, the pedestrian on the footpath. In front of the cab there’s a blind spot where the driver can’t see what’s below. A pedestrian, for example, on a crossing.

What cyclists need to know about trucks and buses too

Truck drivers manage large vehicles and cyclists should be aware of the blind spots above. As a rule of thumb, if a cyclist can’t see the truck driver’s mirrors, the driver probably can’t see them.

Wearing high visibility clothing, using lights, even in daylight, and moving through the blind spot areas quickly or, if possible, avoiding them by stopping earlier, is crucial for safe riding by the cyclist. Cyclists must ride in single file, even on rural roads. Riding two or more abreast takes up most of the lane, making it difficult to pass safely.

Trucks take time and more space to stop and turn and the cyclist should be aware that a truck may need to swing out before making its turn. Cyclists should never pass a turning vehicle, especially a truck or bus.

Cyclists may feel silly using hand signals but the truck driver, bus driver and other vehicle drivers find these useful to know where a cyclist intends to go. 

Illustration credit: NZ Transport Agency/Waka Kotahi

What truck drivers need to know about cyclists

The first is vulnerability. A cyclist will definitely come off worse in any accident with a vehicle or caused by a vehicle.

Leaving 1.5 metres distance between the bike and the truck when passing a cyclist is not only good manners, it’s vital. Any closer and the cyclist may get a fright, causing them to veer or wobble. Truck drivers also need to be aware of down draught. As they pass a cyclist, on either side of the road, the draught created, especially if the truck is going fast, can cause the cyclist again to wobble.

A truck driver should not expect a cyclist to dismount. Cyclists often wear clip-in shoes, meaning the shoe and the pedal are joined (this makes cycling easier and uses less energy) but takes more effort to get off the bike quickly. Plus, if the cyclist has momentum it takes more energy to dismount and start off again.

Before passing a cyclist the truck driver should wait until oncoming traffic has gone by. If the truck driver passes with oncoming traffic, this will squeeze the cyclist and often give them nowhere to go. The truck driver should also reduce speed when passing a cyclist especially on narrow roads. Fast passing creates more down draught, as above.

With dedicated cycling lanes the truck driver should ensure they don’t encroach into these.

Photo credit: Island Bay Cycleway

The truck driver should also be aware of dangers on the road that a cyclist may react to. Potholes, people opening car doors, debris on the road. Providing ample space as they go around the cyclist.

Both cyclists and truck drivers should consider each other, be patient and look for ways to promote safe usage for everyone on the road. Regular maintenance is also essential for safe journeys. Check out our blog on helpful pre-travel checks for trucks.

Add Your Heading Text Here

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Before you hit the road it’s important to run through your safety checks. If you’ve swapped with your driver partner, get up to speed with any road hazards if you have an actual swap over. If you’re picking up the truck at the depot, take time to check the cab, is it tidy and clean?  Take a look at Metservice, is there any nasty weather approaching to be aware of. Check your transport sites for road closures.

Take a walk around the truck

Are there any noticeable cuts or bulges on the tyres? Check for proper inflation and tread.

Test your headlights, tail lights, indicators and brake lights. Are they clean and working? Are your wipers working well and is the washer fluid topped up?

Test your brakes, including the park brake. Make sure all the dashboard lights are working, including hazard lights.

Next, check your mirrors and windows for chips and cracks. Any chip that is in line of sight of the driver will not pass inspection.

Look for any new damage, especially if you’re sharing the truck. Take photos of any body damage as if you were hiring the truck. This makes it easier to explain when back at base.

Know when the next certificate of fitness (CoF) is due.

Make sure your emergency kit is where it should be. Including your first aid kit, fire extinguisher and warning triangles.

Make sure you have all your personal items for the trip, your phone, food and drink and gear if you’re sleeping over in the cab.

Have paperwork, if not digitally captured, including consignment details, load, ferry permit and delivery instructions.

Don’t forget your driver licence and dashboard identification.

Know what to look for under the bonnet and underneath the truck

• Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid and windscreen washer fluid levels.
• Look for cracks, leaks or signs of wear in belts.
• Make sure the terminals on the battery are clean and secure and that battery hasn’t come loose from its mounting.
• Take a look underneath for any signs of oil or petrol/diesel leaks or damage.

Check your load is secure

Carry out your load safety checks:

• Properly secured and evenly distributed. Use appropriate restraints and check that nothing is in danger of shifting. The belts and strops need to be in good working order, ie, they’re not frayed or could otherwise come loose.
• Make sure you’re not overloaded for vehicle inspection.
• Look over the fifth wheel or tow hitch for correct attachment if you have a trailer and check safety chains and that all electrical connections are working, including trailer lights and brakes.

The post The most useful truck checks before driving off appeared first on Cleanco Truck Wash.

Having a designated sleeping section in the cab is best but not all cabs have the luxury of extra space. Ensuring a restful night’s sleep is essential for safety, health and for when you’re on the road again the next day.

Here are some helpful tips to ensure a safe, good night’s sleep no matter the size of your cab, space or bed.

Choose a Safe and Legal Parking Spot When Sleeping in your Cab

• Park in well-lit, designated truck stops or rest areas whenever possible.
• Avoid isolated or unsafe roads to reduce the risk of theft or disturbance.
• Check that it’s okay to park overnight to avoid getting a fine or being moved on.
• A good option is to park on the road in a residential street if you know the house owner/occupier.

Prepare Your Sleeping Area Well

• Make sure you have a good quality mattress or mattress topper. Choose one that includes quality fibres to keep its shape.  It’s worth splashing out on comfort. You can justify it by the money you’re saving on accommodation.
• Make sure you are warm, as being cold will mean a disturbed sleep. Use window shades or curtains to block light and insulate against cold or heat.
• Get used to wearing an eye mask to make the cab feel dark. These can range from under $15 to the more expensive bluelight blockers. Ortorex has a good mid-price blackout mask.

• In warm weather use a battery-powered fan to keep cool.
• In cold weather, go to bed in warm layers, invest in a decent sleeping bag, one that is suitable for the climate, eg, in Auckland one that has an extreme of 0° should be warm enough but just out of the Desert Road, one that is up to -10° extreme is more suitable.
• Use earplugs or a white noise machine to block out sounds from outside.

Maintain Personal Hygiene When Sleeping in your Cab

• Think ahead about where you can clean your teeth and shower. Use wet wipes and hand sanitiser when a shower is not possible
• Change your clothing for bed. This signals to your brain that you are no longer working.
• Try to stick to the same bedtime each night.
• Avoid drinking coffee too late in the day.
• Try to wind down by reading or listening to music.

Secure Your Cab

• Lock all doors and windows and make sure valuables are out of sight.
• Make sure your phone is charged.

Remember, we clean inside the cab too (and outside your truck). Contact us today for a thorough clean.

The post How to stay safe and warm when sleeping in your cab appeared first on Cleanco Truck Wash.

GPS for navigation has become essential technology

Yours might be a regular route but if you’ve got a new route or there are road closures or obstacles, ahead a reliable GPS is essential. It should be able to give traffic updates and prevent sending you down routes unsuitable for large trucks.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) mean no more logbooks

EDLs replace manual logbooks and can be a godsend to the modern truck driver. EDLs automatically track driving hours and rest periods, ensuring that drivers get adequate rest, as well as provide location information, so truck owners know where their drivers are at all times.

Dash cameras or dashcams provide a record of events on the road

Dash cams can provide important information in the event of an accident, as well as provide footage of other drivers’ dangerous driving. Footage can also be used to alert other truck drivers of dangers in the road, like new potholes or changed road conditions.

Two-way radios and CB radios are essential technology for NZ truck drivers

CB radios allow hands-free communication with other drivers especially in areas with poor mobile coverage. Drivers can share information about weather and hazards, as well as tell fellow drivers where they are in their journey.

A smartphone is your vital digital tool, could you imagine not having one?

Smart mobile phones are multipurpose tools for truck drivers, providing access to GPS apps, digital logbooks, weather updates and traffic reports, as well as music and podcasts while on the road. These must only be used in hands-free mode while driving. Using the portable Wi-Fi hotspot option means paperwork can be submitted on the go and drivers can stay on top of other communications, like emails.

Portable power inverters and chargers – essential technology for everything else

Keeping electronic devices charged is a constant challenge on the road. Portable power inverters convert the truck’s DC power into AC, allowing drivers to plug in laptops, microwaves and other small appliances when staying in the truck overnight. Here are the advantages:

• Multiple USB ports and adapters mean you can charge several devices at once.
• High-wattage inverters can support more demanding equipment.
• Portable fridges are ideal to keep food and drinks fresh over long stretches and for drivers who sleep in their cabs.  Modern 12V fridges are energy-efficient and fit snugly into sleeper cabs.

Back up cameras and sensors make driving safer

Large trucks often have significant blind spots, making parking and reversing hazardous. Back up cameras and proximity sensors make manoeuvres safer.

And, of course, a clean truck keeps your truck compliant. Call into any of our truckwash sites nationwide and we’ll take care of the rest.

The post Checklist of essential technology for long-distance truck drivers appeared first on Cleanco Truck Wash.

Here are some simple tips to follow to avoid getting sleepy while driving:

Before You Get into Your Cab

The most effective way to prevent drowsiness while driving is to get enough sleep in the first place. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep the night before your normal route. If you’re sleeping in your cab make sure you go to bed early and turn off devices. How good is your mattress? Do you have enough room? Take stock of your sleeping arrangements.

Schedule breaks every two hours or 150 kms. Your truck may be fitted with a reminder, don’t ignore it. Frequent breaks will help you stay refreshed and alert. Especially if your route has extended because of the Desert Road closure.

What Other Things can Cause Drowsiness?

Conditions such as sleep apnea or not feeling well, like having a cold can increase the likelihood of drowsiness. This is especially true if you’re taking medication for your cold. Check the packet. If it suggests not operating heavy machinery, don’t drive while taking the medication.

What You Can do to Keep Safe and Avoid Getting Sleepy While Driving

Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased alertness. Always have a drink bottle on hand and fill it up whenever you can. Avoid drinking too many coffee or sugary drinks, as they can lead to energy crashes, where you might feel alert straight after but this wanes.

Heavy meals can make you feel sluggish. Opt for light, nutritious snacks, such as fruits, nuts or muesli bars on the road. Try to pack a your own meal.  A filled roll will keep you more alert than a heavy, greasy takeaway.

Listening to upbeat music or interesting podcasts can help keep you awake. Avoid monotonous or soothing tracks that could lull you to sleep. Adjust the volume to a level that keeps you alert without being too loud.

Open the windows to let in fresh air if you feel yourself getting drowsy. But if you’re yawning, have heavy eyelids or catch yourself drifting out of your lane, pull over and take a break. Your break should be between 15 and 20 minutes. Any longer and you will wake up even more groggy. Set an alarm on your phone.

Listen to Alert Systems to Avoid Getting Sleepy While Driving

Some trucks have alert systems for staying in the lane, make sure these are active. Keep to the speed limits, again some trucks have monitoring systems to alert the driver to reduce speed.

If you’ve been held up or are going to miss a ferry crossing, let someone know you need to take a break.

A cup of coffee or an energy drink can help you stay awake for a short period. However, use it sparingly as it can bring you back down once the caffeine has worn off.

Don’t use your phone while driving. As well, if something is out of reach or falls on the floor, pull over to retrieve it. Don’t engage in activities that take your attention away from the road.

Maintaining a safe driving environment reduces the likelihood of accidents caused by drowsiness. And of course, be seen, a clean truck is easier to spot.

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A clean truck helps prevent damage to paintwork

Dirt, grime, salt and other environmental contaminants can build up on your truck. Especially if you drive in areas prone to rain, snow or on coastal roads. Regular washing helps prevent rust and corrosion, which can damage the paint and metal over time.

Likewise bird droppings and tree sap can eat away at your truck’s paint if you regularly park under trees or in other areas where birds nest.  

A clean truck will last longer because you’re taking care of both its exterior and interior. Dirt and debris can wear down materials faster, leading to repairs or replacements. Dirt and salt can damage the undercarriage, which is crucial for your truck’s structure and safety.

A well-maintained truck will retain its resale value better than one that looks worn out. Regular cleaning, both inside and out, helps keep the truck in top condition, for better resale.

Keeping your windshield, mirrors, headlights and tail lights clean improves visibility and safety while driving. Dirt and grime can reduce the effectiveness of your lights, making it harder for you to see and for others to see you. Especially at night or during bad weather.

Remarkably, a clean truck maybe slightly more aerodynamic, meaning improved fuel efficiency, especially at greater speed.

Keep the interior clean, too

Regularly cleaning the interior helps prevent the buildup of dust, dirt and allergens. This makes the cab an all round healthier place to be. This is especially important if you’re sleeping in your cab. It can also prevent the wear and tear of upholstery and trim over time.

A clean truck is good for branding and business, it shows if you take care of your truck you’re likely to take care with other parts of the business. Eg, the load you’re carrying.   

Cleaning may also mean your truckwasher spots things that may need attention, eg, scratches, low tyre pressure, which means you can stay on top of maintenance.

A cleaner truck is easier to clean. Dirt and grime that has been there a while that has become caked on is much harder to remove and could cost more at the truckwash.

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What’s happening with the economic down turn in Wellington?

Everyone’s talking about the changes in Wellington.

With recent big changes, layoffs and redundancies in the public sector the impact on the vibrancy of Wellington is palpable.  Fewer people around simply means less need for lots of infrastructure, like cafes, retail and even transport. New ferry contracts cancelled or re-evaluated, has had a ripple effect on the region’s manufacturers and other suppliers.

What’s the impact on truck drivers?

New Zealand’s economy is currently experiencing subdued growth with a projected gross domestic profit (GDP) contraction of 0.2% for 2024. The economic situation in New Zealand overall also impacts truck drivers in many ways. An economic down turn means less demand for goods, which directly impacts freight volumes and so the trucking industry may be affected.​ When people spend less it means there is a reduction in demand, which filters through to many industries, including the ones who deliver the goods and freight.

What we have to be aware of if demand for shipping declines, competition among trucking companies may increase and therefore affect freight rates in the long term. Owner operators may be affected as their margins are usually tighter, yet fixed costs, like insurance and maintenance, stay the same. As well, trucking companies, like many other industries in an economic down turn, may face delayed payments. Where contractors hold up payments or don’t pay on time, adding to cash flow woes.

Some, though, might see more demand. For example, those who transport essential goods, like food and medical supplies. E-commerce deliveries, too, may be less affected.

Isn’t there a driver shortage?

It’s true, the trucking industry has been facing driver shortages and this may be the saving grace for truck drivers in an economic down turn. Where one employer may need to reduce shifts, others will be looking to employ more drivers. Efforts to attract foreign drivers have included a work-to-residence pathway but this pathway closed for new applicants in April. This may impact efforts to reduce the driver shortage and may strain the industry further.

Redundancies/lay offs

Economic stress in the home can take a toll on the mental and physical health of truck drivers. There may be redundancies or lay offs in the home. Financial worries increase pressure to do more trips, which can lead to driver fatigue. It also adds to stress levels to keep up with regular outgoings on less income.

It’s important for fleet managers to keep abreast of their truck drivers’ situations to help support their employees. And to also ensure truck standards, like truck washing and regular maintenance, are ongoing.

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