Avoid severe accidents by verifying connection of the fifth wheel

Transportation service providers (TSP) are responsible for inspecting equipment to ensure safe operation, and it is the responsibility of tractor operators to ensure that the fifth wheel and kingpin are securely locked as enforced in federal regulations. When coupling equipment, the operator should not rely on the tug test along, as stated in fifth wheel manufactures owner's manuals. Failure to properly install, operate or maintain the fifth wheel could result in trctor and trailer separation causing death or serious injury to other. To prevent these situations from occurring, tractor operators should verify the following during the pre-trip:

1. Verify proper tractor connection to the first trailer by ensuring:

• The tractor fifth wheel is locked by confirming the fifth wheel release handle is retracted

• There is no space between the top of the fifth wheel and the bottom of the trailer

• The fifth wheel jaws are closed, locking the trailer kingpin

• Air and electrical connections are properly connected

2. Verify the connection of the dolly to the first trailer by ensuring:

• The pintle hook latch is closed and locked

• Both safety chains are attached to the trailer

• Air and electrical connection are properly connected

3. Verify second trailer connection, if applicable, to the dolly by ensuring

• The dolly fifth wheel is locked by confirming the fifth wheel release handle is retracted

• There is no space between the top of the fifth wheel and the bottom of the trailer

• The fifth wheel jaws are closed, locking the trailer kingpin

• A white light illuminates the fifth wheel throat area if using an ELI-te dolly. The white light indicates a proper coupling with the trailer's kingpin, ensuring the lock jaws are fully closed around the kingpin. ---- If the ELI-te dolly shows a flashing red light, it means an improper coupling or "not locked" condition occurred, indicating a need to address an issue.

• Air and electrical connection are properly connected

Important reminder: While a tug test has always been crucial when hooking up a trailer, when hooking up multiple trailers, the tug test is important for the rear trailer in an effort to avoid a disconnect.