Emergency Truck Operation: What to Do if Your Truck Loses Air Pressure

Trucking is a demanding profession, and understanding how to handle emergencies is crucial. One of the most critical situations you may encounter is when your truck loses air pressure. This can be a terrifying and potentially dangerous scenario. However, with the right knowledge and procedures, you can manage the situation effectively and ensure both your safety and that of others on the road.

Understanding the Dangers of Losing Air Pressure

Imagine the worst; when your truck's air pressure drops to zero, you are essentially trapped inside a sealed space. The pressure can be so intense that opening a door requires immense force. In such a situation, there is virtually no escape. Your eyes would rupture due to the pressure, and you would be crushed to death, making this a terrifying and possibly fatal outcome.

Fortunately, there is very little scientific research on the effects of a vacuum on the human body, but the dangers are clear. Losing air pressure is not only a death sentence, but it can also cause significant bodily harm. It is essential to know the procedures to follow in case of an emergency.

Identifying the Cause of the Air Pressure Loss

When dealing with a truck that has lost air pressure, it is essential to quickly identify the cause. Whether the pressure loss is rapid or slow, the following steps can help you determine the issue.

Checking for Rapid Air Pressure Loss

If you have lost air pressure rapidly, the first step is to check the gladhands to ensure they are connected properly. If they are connected, look underneath the rig for any hanging airline. Start the engine and listen for any airflow to determine where the air is escaping.

Dealing with Slow Air Pressure Build-Up

If the air pressure does not build up after the engine has been off for a while, ensure that the compressor's fan belt is intact. Start the engine and listen for any airflow to determine where the air is escaping. Close all the drain valves to ensure proper air pressure.

Finally, if none of the above steps resolve the issue, professional assistance will be necessary to diagnose and fix the problem.

Immediate Actions if Air Pressure Drops Suddenly

Now, imagine you are driving down the road and you hit a rock or a pothole that breaks an air line, causing all the compressed air to be dumped. This is a common scenario, and it can have severe consequences if not managed properly.

Here is what you should do immediately:

Shift to Neutral

First, shift your truck to neutral to prevent it from rolling further. This is important because the brakes on non-steer axles will engage once the pressure drops below 60 psi, which can help slow your truck down.

Use the Brakes Wisely

The front brake chambers do not have springs to assist in braking, as they need to be able to turn the wheels for steering. When the brakes on the non-steer axles activate, they will stop the truck, but you must keep steering while the truck slows to a halt.

Activate Emergency Flashers

Immediately turn on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your situation.

Contact Authorities and Management

Use your cell phone to call the police. If you work for a trucking company, use the messaging computer to send a breakdown message so that someone can come to fix your truck or tow it to a shop.

Stay Safe and Alert

When it is safe to do so, get out of the truck and put out your warning devices. Stay with the truck until help arrives to ensure no one accidentally drives over it or encounters another dangerous situation.

Trucking safety is paramount, and understanding how to handle air pressure emergencies is a critical part of that. By following these steps, you can help ensure that you and others remain safe on the road.