CarriersEdge, a provider of online driver training for the trucking industry, is now offering Vehicle Inspection training courses in Spanish. The modules, 10 in all, provide a full scope of training material for drivers and are available in two versions – straight trucks and tractor/trailers. The material educates and tests drivers in the requirements needed for proper inspections, as well as proper reporting.

According to Jane Jazrawy, co-founder and chief executive officer of CarriersEdge, the English versions of Vehicle Inspections are some of the most popular courses in CarriersEdge library, “and we expect our Spanish versions will be just as popular,” she said. “The modules were based on information from industry experts as well as the CVSA and FMCSA. This helps ensure a full understanding of all the relevant inspection procedures needed.” 

Other Spanish courses offered through CarriersEdge include Defensive Driving and Hours of Service. Overall, CarriersEdge features a library of more than 70 full-length and refresher/remedial courses on important safety and regulatory topics in trucking, from securing loads to handling hazardous materials.

According to Jazrawy, the Vehicle Inspection modules have several key components, including segments on driver vehicle inspection reports. “These are tutorials with testing to demonstrate vehicle inspection knowledge and proficiency,” Jazrawy said. “They go through the steps a driver must take – showcasing the sections in the report; how to identify a defect using the report and how to indicate a repair is needed. CVSA Critical Vehicle Items, as well as DVIR requirements, are covered.”

Other sections deal with Inspection Practices and cover best practices for staying safe and secure while completing pre-trip inspections. The modules discuss, in detail, the proper methods for inspecting vital components. “We focus on brakes, lights, and tires, which account for the most common violations,” said Jazrawy. “We also include a guide to measuring pushrod stroke, determining brake chamber type and applying in-cab brake tests.”

Students stay engaged in the learning process thanks to an easy-to-understand tutorial, which includes animation and videos with real-world scenarios.

The last sections, with a separate straight truck, and tractor/trailer versions, zero in on what to look for as you approach your equipment. “Plus, we include information on how to check the main engine system, fluids, belts and hoses, and, how to inspect each axle. Our trailer segment includes tutorials on proper inspections and what to look for.”

All CarriersEdge courses are interactive to reinforce the concepts presented, and quizzes and tests give drivers immediate feedback on comprehension. Courses can be taken anytime and any place drivers have access to a computer or mobile device and an internet connection, giving them the flexibility to keep up-to-date with training while traveling or at home. CarriersEdge combines those courses with a system of management tools allowing fleet managers to track training efficiently.

According to Jazrawy, offering training in multiple languages (the company also has courses in French and Punjabi) is not only of benefit to drivers but also “it’s very effective in attracting new drivers,” she said.

“When you combine training in the driver’s native language, along with diverse recruiting and an operations staff with members who can speak more than one language, you have a solid support system for new drivers.”