OOSC, Part I, Item 1. Brake Systems, Disconnected Electrical Cord

The current OOSC for inoperative electrical brakes and lighting connections due to a lack of connection includes a note stating that, once the connection is re-established, the system must be inspected. The criteria do not address situations where the connection cannot be re-established.

Inspectors encounter cases where an electrical connection cannot be re-established due to damage, missing components, or other mechanical deficiencies. The current language only provides direction for situations where the connection is successfully restored. As written, this may be interpreted as meaning that additional inspection of the system is required only if the connection is re-established. This creates uncertainty regarding whether inspectors should proceed with further inspection and documentation of violations when reconnection is not possible. Clarification would support consistent application and ensure inspectors have clear guidance in these scenarios.

Clarify the intended inspection and enforcement procedure when an electrical connection cannot be re-established. Specifically, clarify whether inspectors are expected to proceed with inspection and documentation of additional violations in the absence of a restored connection, or if the enforcement is limited to the initial OOS condition. PROPOSED CLARIFYING NOTES: Option 1) If the connection cannot be re-established, but the inspector should proceed with violations: "NOTE: After electrical connection is re-established, all towed vehicle(s) electrical lighting systems shall be inspected and, if applicable, recorded as per Operational Policy 14 – Enhancing Roadside Inspection and Enforcement Data Uniformity. If the electrical connection cannot be re-established, the inspector should inspect the electrical lighting systems and document all observable violations." Option 2) If the connection cannot be re-established, but the inspector should not proceed with violations: "NOTE: After electrical connection is re-established, all towed vehicle(s) electrical lighting systems shall be inspected and, if applicable, recorded as per Operational Policy 14 – Enhancing Roadside Inspection and Enforcement Data Uniformity. If the electrical connection cannot be re-established, the inspector should not inspect the electrical lighting systems, and only record the initial OOS condition."