TLIC407D - Drive Heavy Rigid Vehicle - Learner Guide

TLIC407D

MC

W.M.I.T.

Drive heavy rigid vehicle

Armstrong’s Driver Education Learner Guide

TLIC407D Drive heavy rigid vehicle

Page 2 © Australian National Training Authority 2003 ADELG1021 Customised and Developed by Armstrong’s Driver Education P/L August 2009


© Australian National Training Authority 2003 Page 3 Customised and Developed by Armstrong’s Driver Education P/L August 2009 ADELG1021

Contents

What this Learner’s Guide is about ........................................ 5

Planning your learning ........................................................... 6

How you will be assessed ...................................................... 8

Section 1............................................................................................. 9

How are heavy rigid trucks and buses correctly driven under license testing conditions? ..................................................... 9

Additional resources....................................................................... 41

Feedback on activities .................................................................... 43





What this Learner’s Guide is about

This Learner’s Guide is about the skills and knowledge required to drive a heavy combination vehicle safely including systematic and efficient control of all vehicle functions, monitoring of traffic and road conditions, management of vehicle condition and performance, coupling and uncoupling of trailer, and effective management of hazardous situations. Assessment of this unit will usually be undertaken within a licensing examination conducted, by or under the authority of, the relevant state/territory Road Traffic Authority.

The Elements of Competency from the unit TLIC407D Drive heavy rigid vehicle covered in this Learner’s Guide are listed below.

Drive the heavy rigid vehicle

Monitor traffic and road conditions

Monitor and maintain vehicle performance

This unit of competency is from the Transport and Logistics Training Package (TLI07).



Planning your learning

It is important to plan your learning before you start because you may already have some of the knowledge and skills that are covered in this Learner’s Guide. This might be because:

• you have been working in the industry for some time, and/or

• you have already completed training in this area.

Together with your supervisor or trainer use the checklists on the following pages to help you plan your study program. Your answers to the questions in the checklist will help you work out which sections of this Learner’s Guide you need to complete.

This Learner’s Guide is written with the idea that learning is made more relevant when you, the learner, are actually working in the industry. This means that you will have people within the enterprise who can show you things, discuss how things are done and answer any questions you have. Also you can practise what you learn and see how what you learn is applied in the enterprise.

If you are working through this Learner’s Guide and have not yet found a job in the industry, you will need to talk to your trainer about doing work experience or working and learning in some sort of simulated workplace.



Section 1: Driving heavy rigid trucks and buses correctly under licence testing conditions

Are you able to: Yes No

1. complete a pre-‐departure vehicle check?

2. start the engine and undertake post-‐startup checks?

3. secure or confirm the security of the load being transported on an heavy rigid vehicle?

4. steer, manoeuvre and position the vehicle in accordance with traffic regulations, vehicle limitations and road dimensions?

5. manage engine power to ensure efficiency in performance and minimise engine and gear damage?

6. monitor the vehicle for malfunctions and to ensure maximum efficiency of operation?

7. monitor and anticipate traffic and road conditions to avoid injury to people or damage to property, equipment and loads?

8. stop the vehicle without injury to personnel or damage to the vehicle, property or land?

9. drive the vehicle in reverse, maintaining visibility and achieving accurate positioning?

10. park, shutdown and secure the vehicle in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications, traffic regulations and company procedures?



How you will be assessed

Assessment of this Unit of Competency will include observation of real or simulated work processes using workplace procedures and questioning on underpinning knowledge and skills. It must be demonstrated in an actual or simulated work situation under supervision.

You will be required to:

• complete required pre-‐departure checks

• secure various loads on heavy rigid vehicles

• drive, park and secure heavy rigid vehicles in a variety of conditions.



Section 1

How are heavy rigid trucks and buses correctly driven under license testing conditions?



Section outline

Areas covered in this section

Pre-‐departure checks

Securing loads

Selecting and changing gears

Driving an articulated vehicle, in various road, weather and task conditions

Parking and securing articulated vehicles



Pre-‐Departure Checks

Drivers of heavy rigid vehicles must complete full pre-‐departure checks before moving off in those vehicles. Your company will have a policy on the checks you must undertake before you drive a vehicle. These tasks will vary from company to company, according to how much responsibility your company gives you to check the serviceability of their heavy rigid vehicles.



Activity 1: What procedures are required to complete a pre-departure Check?

You are required to identify and check the serviceability of a heavy rigid vehicle.

Before you start this activity, look at the following checklist and discuss any details you are unsure of with your trainer. Then use the checklist to tick off the successfully completed tasks when you have finished the activity.

Sub-Tasks Steps Completed

1. Complete engine ‘warming up’ checks

Confirm that brakes are fully applied

Ensure vehicle is fuelled sufficiently for the forthcoming task

Check that all fluids (oils and coolants) are at correct levels

Start the engine safely, ensuring gear box is first disengaged

Check all tyre inflation pressures

Check all tyres for wall condition, tread depth and even wear

Check that the spare wheel is in good condition and secured in position

Check that all wheel nuts are tight and have no signs of movement

Check that parking, head, hazard, auxiliary and clearance lights are working satisfactorily

Check that rear parking, indicator, brake and reversing lights are working satisfactorily

Confirm that all plates and signs are legible and in correct quantities

Check exhaust for visible emissions and noise leaks

Check vehicle posture to ensure the chassis is ‘even’ with the wheels

Check lockers, stowage compartments and doors, ensuring serviceability of latches



Check serviceability and security of external fittings, including mirrors, lights, mudflaps, etc.

Confirm vehicle tool kit, including wheel change tools, is complete

Check the location and suitability of safety equipment, including First Aid kit.

2. Complete cabin checks

Check that oil, air and alternator warning lights are working

Ensure that the oil pressure is on a correct reading and that the alternator is charging

Check for correct air pressure

Check that windscreen wipers and washers are working satisfactorily

Check that the horn is working

Check that the park brake is working satisfactorily

Confirm opening and closing functions of all windows

Check seat adjustments for security and personal preferences

Adjust mirrors to confirm correct operation and use from driver’s chosen sitting position

Confirm the currency of the vehicle’s registration

Complete the Pre-departure Check documentation according to company policy.

3. Finalise the Pre-Department check

Report any defects, according to company policy.



Securing a load

The driver and the person loading a heavy rigid vehicle are responsible to make sure the load is properly restrained by the vehicle structure, its attachments and the load securing equipment. The driver, the vehicle owner and the person loading a heavy rigid vehicle are responsible to make sure each of these is serviceable and working properly.

These three people must also make sure that the vehicle structure, its attachments and the load securing equipment are strong enough to hold and secure the load.

In all loading activities, you should refer to the ‘Load Restraint Guide’. That document shows all methods and requirements of load securing, so you should keep a copy of it with you at all times to check that your loading conforms to regulations.



Activity 2: How are loads secured on heavy rigid vehicles?

Answer the following questions on securing loads by ticking “Correct” or “Incorrect” and giving a reason for your answer.

Study the 4 diagrams below and indicate whether they are correctly or incorrectly loaded:

Correct

Incorrect

Why_____________________

Correct

Incorrect

Why_____________________

Correct

Incorrect

Why_____________________

Correct

Incorrect

Why_____________________



List the 3 areas of driver responsibility for loading a vehicle.

1. _________________________________________________

2. _________________________________________________

3. _________________________________________________

List the 3 factors necessary to secure a load.

1. _________________________________________________

2. _________________________________________________

3. _________________________________________________

Write down the meaning of the following International Cargo Symbols.

Symbol Meaning

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________



Symbol Meaning

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________



Symbol Meaning

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

_______________________________

There is feedback on this activity at the back of this Learner’s Guide.



Loading DO s and DON’Ts

There are a number of methods to properly secure loads, just as there are some practices which must never be used. You will properly secure loads if you always follow this list of “DO s” and “DON’Ts”:

DO:

• make sure you have enough lashings that are in good condition and strong enough to secure the load

• make sure that tie down lashings are as near to vertical as possible

• make sure that direct lashings attached to loads on wheels are not near vertical

• attach lashings at tie rail support points

• check and re-‐tighten the lashings and other restraining devices as required

• use lashing protectors on sharp edges

• use wedges and chocks to block your load

• make sure that loose baulking on loads cannot fall or be blown off the vehicle

• use a vehicle that is built strongly enough for the job

• take extreme care when releasing any fixed lever load-‐binder.

DON’T:

• use faulty equipment

• attach chains or webbing between tie rail support points

• tie down loads onto greasy or dirty steel decks

• stand over and push down on load-‐binders.



Activity 3: Which loading and unloading methods are used when securing heavy rigid vehicle loads?

Your trainer will provide you with a Heavy Rigid Vehicle to load and unload in this activity. If you are unsure of what you are required to do, you must seek assistance and/or use the Load Restraint Guide.

Read all of the steps in the following table that you are required to do before you start this activity.

After loading is completed, ask your trainer to check your work to make sure that all items have been correctly loaded, and are safe to be unloaded.


1. Identify load characteristics

Check that the tray area is suitable for the load, with adequate space and capacity

Assess the load for its transportability by checking load markings and documentation

Check the load for Dangerous Goods contents

Check the load components to ensure their compatibility for transportation.

2. Identify load limits and safety requirements

Calculate the appropriate loading sequence for the journey, which will facilitate unloading

Choose appropriate and adequate restraints for the task

Check that appropriate and adequate safety equipment is securely stowed in the correct locations on the vehicle

Confirm that the loaded vehicle will not exceed legal axle load limits, (both GVM and GCM)

Confirm that Road Transport Reform Regulations will not be exceeded

Check that the dimensions of the loaded vehicle will not exceed road safety limits for the journey (length, width and height).



3. Plan loading of the vehicle

Ensure the stability of the vehicle by checking that the vehicle can be loaded with the centre of gravity of the load as low as possible and along the centre ‘line’ of the vehicle

Ensure that the tyres will not be overloaded

Check that the vehicle can be loaded so that the load’s centre of mass is forward of the rear axle group

Check that tie rails and anchor points are undamaged, and the restraining equipment will not cause damage by chafing, crushing and over-tensioning as the load is secured

Check that pallets are of sufficient strength for the load

Check for damaged or leaking containers

Confirm the serviceability of load covering equipment, for protection in adverse weather conditions

Assess whether the load can be handled manually and locate appropriate mechanical lifting aids if required.

4. Load the vehicle in accordance with the ‘Load Restraint Guide’

Ensure that no apparent danger is present to other personnel (including all members of the public)

Ensure the engine is switched off if not required during the loading process

Safely position the load on the vehicle’s carrying surface *

Ensure chafing and crushing of load items is avoided

Ensure sufficient friction between the load and the vehicle’s carrying surface

Load pallets along the length of the vehicle

Install baulking / packing to pallets that are not loaded close together to optimise correct load placement

Ensure all necessary signs and flags are suitably placed for overhanging or over-dimensional loads



Operate mechanical loading securing equipment (where appropriate) by:

• checking unit load device placements

• confirming covering / restraining process is complete.

* (Use of other mechanical lifting aids is prescribed in other Learner’s Guides specific to that equipment.)

5. Secure the load

Ensure that lashings are tied at angles of at least 30° to the vehicle loading surface (as defined in the “Load Restraint Guide”)

Ensure that vertical movement and tipping of the load is not possible, by placing restraints across the top of the load

Ensure against forward and rearward movement of the load, by passing restraints through the base of the pallets (where possible)

Ensure that the top of each separate section of the load has at least one cross lashing

Ensure that any part of the load which is above the general height of the load has at least two cross lashings

Restrain the load horizontally using chocks or vertical restraints where necessary

Confirm that all ties (ropes, chains, straps, buckles, etc), are correctly tied, installed and secured, as applicable

Ensure all gates and/or doors are correctly mounted and secured as appropriate

Fully engage all twist locks.

6. Cover the load Use appropriate materials to cover the load, ensuring load movement does not occur

Adequately secure the covering materials, ensuring protection against adverse weather conditions or spillages in the container

Ensure any loose surfaces (packaging, ties, tarpaulin and curtain flaps, etc), are secured against movement during transit.



7. Unload the vehicle in accordance with the ‘Load Restraint Guide’

Park and secure the vehicle in a suitable position for unloading, ensuring protection for all personnel, materials and equipment

Remove load covers (where necessary) and stow safely

Safely release load restraints and stow safely

Calculate the unloading sequence and the ‘set-down’ points for each item

Unload the vehicle in the pre-determined sequence, transferring each item to its safe location. *

* (Use of mechanical lifting aids is prescribed in other Learner’s Guides specific to that equipment.)

8. Observe OHS practices

Observe and implement Occupational Health and Safety practices, during all tasks in the loading and unloading processes.

When you have marked all the steps as complete, discuss with your trainer any areas of your work that require improvement to make sure loads are secure and safe.



Selecting and Changing Gears

The ability of a vehicle to perform its tasks is based on the efficiency of its engine. When engines burn fuel, energy is released, but this cannot be used effectively unless the engine’s power is managed properly. The driver is responsible for this management, by recognising and using the engine’s ability as defined by its manufacturer.

Drivers of heavy rigid vehicles must select an appropriate gear, according to the engine speed required to complete the demands placed on the vehicle. There is a limited range of engine speeds (RPM) which produce high torque (force) and good fuel economy. Gears are designed to achieve the best engine speed for the given condition while minimising fuel use and reducing wear on the engine.

Manufacturers specify the engine RPM range for maximum torque. When accelerating or climbing a hill, you should usually up-‐shift or down-‐shift whenever the engine is approaching the limit of the RPM range.

On a relatively flat road, where maximum pulling power is not critically important, you should select the gear which enables the engine to run at its most economical speed. This engine speed may be specified by the manufacturer, and may be slightly above the range specified for maximum torque. Experienced drivers may use the sound and feel (i.e. vibrations) of the engine as guides to gear shifting.

Drivers of heavy rigid vehicles should never “coast” the vehicle by driving the vehicle in neutral or in a gear with the clutch disengaged. Coasting is extremely dangerous because:

• the vehicle’s speed may become too great for the brakes to stop it

• the vehicle’s speed may have increased beyond the engine’s RPM limits, preventing a gear to be re-‐engaged when needed

• the clutch may burn out or become damaged

• engaging a gear may be impossible if the engine was to stall.



Activity 4: How are gears used efficiently to drive heavy rigid vehicles?

Answer the following questions on selecting and changing gears by ticking “Correct” or “Incorrect”.

Correct Incorrect The purpose of gears in a vehicle is to:

• increase the engine energy capacity • spread the friction over more components • match road speed to best engine speed. When driving up a steep hill, the best gear to engage is: • the lowest gear ratio the vehicle has • the highest gear the vehicle that is possible

• the highest gear that maintains specified engine torque.

For descending long or steep hills, a driver should: • engage a high gear to minimise RPM and wear

• engage a lower gear during the descent

• engage the required gear before descent commences.

When slowing or stopping, gear changing should: • include all intermediate ratios available

• engage only the gear that will be next needed.

Negotiating a sharp corner, the required gear is engaged: • before entering the corner

• at the sharpest point of the corner

• during the exit from the corner

• immediately after leaving the corner.



The term “Progressive Shifting” means: • using maximum RPM in each gear before shifting

• attaining only enough RPM to reach the next gear

• changing gear at the same RPM for every shift.

The gear changing difference between petrol and diesel engines is: • diesel engines have higher torque at lower RPM

• petrol engines pull better at low RPM.

The term “Skip Shifting” means that the driver: • avoids de-clutching during gear shifts

• engages the most suitable gear regardless of sequence.

To engage a lower gear while moving on a slight downgrade: • decrease speed to well below that of the lowest gear

• retain vehicle speed / gently decrease RPM.




Braking

As a professional driver of a heavy rigid vehicle, you should be aware of the danger posed by your vehicle should you lose control of its speed or direction. The following braking rules must be applied at all times while driving heavy rigid vehicles:

• brake early and gradually

• brake in a straight line

• allow for the load

• match your braking to the road surface

• ease off as the vehicle slows

• test your brakes after driving through water.

Many of the latest heavy rigid vehicles are fitted with anti-‐lock braking systems (ABS), which are designed to prevent wheel lock up and improve manoeuvrability under braking. Maximum braking occurs when the wheels are just on the point of locking, but if a wheel locks and skids, braking effectiveness is reduced.

Heavy vehicles will be more difficult to stop under braking, depending on their size and their load. Road and weather conditions affect braking performance. The speed of vehicles will also affect braking performance, as will the time taken by drivers to react to the need for braking. You must consider all these factors when driving, especially as the loss of vehicle control (skidding) is both dangerous and frequent. For example, the heavier the vehicle, the wetter the road, the faster the speed, the more tired the driver and the harder the braking, the more likely skidding will occur.

Downhill speed should be controlled by use of engine speed and correct gear selection. If braking is necessary during a descent, a driver should, if possible, try to brake only when the vehicle is travelling in a straight line. Braking on a bend increases the risk of skidding and should usually only be used in an emergency. If braking must be applied on a bend, it should be done as gently as possible.



Activity 5: How are brakes efficiently used to control heavy rigid vehicles?


Correct Incorrect Hydraulic brake systems: • force fluid pressure to cylinder pistons on each wheel

• can suffer from water contamination, lowering the boiling point of the brake fluid.

On steep downhill slopes, brakes should be used: • very few times during the descent

• only for emergencies and unexpected conditions

• by applying and releasing quickly and frequently.

Brake performance can be dangerously affected by: • water on the friction surfaces • overheating and brake fade through overuse

• using gears which are too low for some sections of the hill

• the nature of the road surface. To use brakes safely and efficiently, you should: • avoid braking in curves or corners if possible

• use less braking for lighter loads • test brakes after driving through water.



List the 6 rules for braking:

1. ___________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________

3. ___________________________________________________

4. ___________________________________________________

5. ___________________________________________________

6. ___________________________________________________




Professional driving

Most road users will be non-‐professional drivers who have not received as much training as drivers of heavy rigid or other commercial vehicles. Professional drivers are courteous and drive in a defensive manner. Driving in such a manner will encourage a more tolerant attitude towards the Road Transport Industry and people employed in it.

A defensive driver avoids causing accidents and also avoids becoming involved in accidents caused by other road users. Defensive drivers know and observe the laws and regulations relating to the road, the vehicles they drive and the goods they transport. The defensive driver is prepared to give way to avoid the possibility of an accident, even if by law, the other road user is at fault.

Defensive driving requires superior observation and anticipation skills. Drivers will need to know what is happening all around their vehicle. The skills needed for defensive driving include:

• continuously observe all situations, including looking as far ahead as possible

• maintaining safe ‘space cushions’

• frequently checking mirrors

• slowing down to negotiate all driving situations

• selecting the most appropriate gears for each driving task

• trying to anticipate possible dangers

• using appropriate speeds, turning and stopping techniques, and warning devices to negotiate and leave hazardous situations.



Activity 6: Which procedures are used to professionally drive heavy rigid vehicles?

Look at the diagram below. Which one of the four steering positions shows how the front wheel must be turned as the Prime Mover begins to reverse?

Answer: (1, 2, 3 or 4) __________

1 2 3 4




Activity 6: Which procedures are used to professionally drive heavy rigid vehicles?

During this activity, any deliberate or accidental failure to observe Road Rules will immediately cause the activity to be terminated. In these circumstances, your trainer will not be able to assess you as a ‘competent’ driver.

Where possible, the activity may be varied to cater for driving during any working hours, weather and road conditions. For Emergency situations that obviously cannot be created, your trainer will check your performance by seeking descriptions of required actions and/or simulation exercises.


1. Prepare for driving

Complete a Pre-Departure Check

Fit the seat belt securely

Start the engine

Build up adequate brake air pressure prior to take-off.

2. Drive the vehicle commencing on an uphill grade

Select the lowest appropriate gear, after vehicle is held stationary by service brakes

Apply the park brake

Release service brakes and engage the clutch to the friction point

Check mirrors for other road users

Release the park brake

Fully engage the clutch, using minimal throttle opening

Accelerate smoothly, ensuring the vehicle does not roll back on clutch engagement

Monitor all vehicle systems, to ensure unsafe operating conditions does not eventuate. *

* This step is an on-going function of all steps in the driving process.



3. Drive the vehicle on descending grades

Select the appropriate gear for the degree and conditions of the descent, before commencing the descent

Use brakes smoothly, and for short periods only

Use mirrors to monitor traffic flow, at the beginning and during the descent

Use mirrors to monitor the vehicle’s position when cornering

Engage the auxiliary brake (engine, exhaust or tailshaft retarder) at commencement of descent

Ensure all regulatory and advisory signs are observed

Ensure the vehicle is driven on the left hand-side of the road, whenever practicable.

4. Drive the vehicle on single lane roads

Maintain the vehicle within the lane boundary, during both general driving and turning, where practicable

Observe all regulatory and advisory signs

Drive safely and smoothly, whilst maintaining observation of other road users, vehicle position and prevailing conditions, especially through the use of mirrors

Co-operate with other drivers during overtaking by maintaining appropriate speed and providing safe adequate space

Maintain safe ‘space cushions’ when following or being followed, appropriately varied for changing road and weather conditions

Overtake safely, by indicating correctly and with sufficient warning time, assessing adequate clear road distance and checking other possible overtaking vehicles.

5. Drive the vehicle on multiple lane roads

Maintain the vehicle within the lane boundary, during driving and demonstrate safe and legal road positions during turns




Drive safely and smoothly, whilst maintaining observation of other road users, vehicle position and prevailing conditions, especially through the use of mirrors

Co-operate with other drivers during overtaking by maintaining appropriate speed and providing safe adequate space

Maintain safe ‘space cushions’ when following or being followed, appropriately varied for changing road and weather conditions

Overtake safely, by indicating correctly and with sufficient warning time, assessing adequate clear road distance and checking other possible overtaking vehicles

Select the outside lane, (to assist with cut-in) when turning.

6. Drive the vehicle in various turning situations

Control and position the vehicle appropriately when approaching turns

Position the vehicle to ensure safe actions of other road users with respect to overtaking

Observe all other road users, in preparation for the turn, including by the use of mirrors

Provide sufficient warning to other road users by indicating in time and accurately

Apply brakes smoothly, to achieve speed below the advisory sign limit before turning commences

Smoothly select the appropriate gear for the turn, prior to commencing the turning process


Apply and maintain power throughout the turning process

Steer smoothly (using both hands), maintaining vehicle control through the turn (a cross-over of hands is acceptable in slow turns within confined spaces)

Steer the vehicle, taking due care of the effects of roundabouts and other road cambers



Adjust body position to remove vision blockouts

Negotiate turns, in safe and legal road positions, whilst observing other road users and prevailing conditions, especially through the use of mirrors

Maintain the vehicle on the formed road / designated surface, (no kerb mounting) ensuring the safety of all users during the turning process.

7. Drive the vehicle in reverse gear

Check for hazards and obstructions in front, behind and above the vehicle

Check that mirrors are clean and adjusted to facilitate maximum views

Use mirrors to maintain visibility behind and beside the vehicle

Use horn or warning device to indicate vehicle is about to reverse

Choose the maximum available space to complete the reversing task

Avoid accidents by reviewing the reverse path before proceeding, especially when entering warehouses, loading bays and related enclosures

Reverse into a loading bay, stopping when contact is made with the bay for rear loading or when safely adjacent to it for side loading

Park the vehicle in various kerbside / yard locations using reverse gears

Take correct actions on time and safely.


Observe and implement Occupational Health and Safety practices, including posture and cabin distractions, and especially the mandatory requirements of driving hours and related fatigue issues, during all steps in the driving process.



Parking and securing

Drivers of heavy rigid vehicles are required to safely park and secure their vehicle according to road laws and company policy. Tasks include:

• appropriate site selection

• vehicle lock-‐up

• load placement and security.



Activity 7: How are heavy rigid vehicles parked and secured?

You are now required to park and secure the vehicle that you have just driven. At the conclusion of this activity, your trainer will advise you of areas of your work that may require improvement.


1. Park and secure the vehicle

Park the vehicle in a location approved by company policy or Road Law, and apply all park brakes

Confirm that the engine has had an adequate period to cool down, especially for the turbo-charger, then switch off the engine

Chock the vehicle wheels as appropriate for the selected location, and check vehicle and load status according to company policy.


Observe and implement Occupational Health and Safety practices, especially during checks and chocking, during all steps in the parking and securing processes.

After you have parked and secured your vehicle discuss with your trainer any areas of your work that may need to be improved.



Activity 8: What type of questions are likely to be asked of you before you are issued with a licence to drive heavy rigid vehicles?

The issue of a licence will partly depend on how well you can answer questions similar to those that follow.

Check your answers to the questions with your trainer.

Tick or circle the correct answer, or write your answers in spaces provided

1. When any vehicle negotiates a curve or turn, the rear wheels follow a shorter path than the front ones. What is this called?

____________________________________________________

2. Does the length of the vehicle and the sharper the turn affect the cut-in aspect? - Yes or No?

____________________________________________________

3. When steering a vehicle in reverse, which way do you turn the steering wheel?

____________________________________________________



4. Study the diagram below and indicate, by drawing a line between the vehicles, the correct line of travel (Good Driving Line):

5. Look at these diagrams and list the actions to be taken if you have:

1. Front Wheel Skid



a) during acceleration

• __________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________

b) during braking

• __________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________

2. Drive Wheel Skid

• __________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________

• __________________________________________________




Additional resources



Web sites:

• National Transport Commission http://www.ntc.gov.au/

• Australian Transport Safety Bureau http://www.atsb.gov.au

• Road and Traffic Authority (NSW) http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au

• VicRoads (Vic) http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au

• Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development & Local Government http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/

• NSW Workcover http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au

• Queensland Rural Fire Service http://www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au

• WorkSafe Victoria (including publications section) http://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/WorkSafe/Home/Forms+and+Publications/

• Attorney General’s Department (relevant legislation) http://www.ag.gov.au/www/agd/agd.nsf/Page/Legislation

Organisations:

• National Transport Commission Level 15, 628 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3000) Telephone: 03 9236 5000 Facsimile: 03 9642 8922

• Commonwealth Bookshop 109 Queens St Melbourne, Victoria Telephone (03) 9670 4224

• Standards Australia 19 – 25 Raglan St South Melbourne, Victoria Telephone (03) 9693 3555



Feedback on activities

The responses provided in this section are suggested responses. Because every workplace is different, your responses may vary according to your specific workplace procedures, the equipment available and the nature of the business.



Activity 3: How are loads secured on heavy rigid vehicles?

Study the 4 diagrams below and indicate whether they are correctly or incorrectly loaded:

Correct

Incorrect X

Why Good Load Spread

Correct X

Incorrect

Why Load too far rearward

Correct X

Incorrect

Why Load too far forward

Correct

Incorrect X

Why Load correctly positioned



List the 3 areas of driver responsibility for loading a vehicle

1. Loading 2. Distribution 3. Arranging the load

List the 3 factors necessary to secure a load

1. Lashing secured to the vehicle chassis 2. Baulking arrangements 3. Friction between the load and the vehicle platform

Write down the meaning of the following International Cargo Symbols

Symbol Meaning

Sling here

Keep dry



Symbol Meaning

Heavy weight this end

Use no hooks

Keep away from heat

This way up



Symbol Meaning

Fragile - handle with care

Activity 4: How are gears used efficiently to drive heavy rigid vehicles?


Correct Incorrect

The purpose of gears in a vehicle is to:

a) Increase the engine energy capacity b) Spread the friction over more components c) Match road speed to best engine speed

When driving up a steep hill, the best gear to engage is:

a) the lowest gear ratio the vehicle has b) the highest gear the vehicle that is possible c) the highest gear that maintains specified

engine torque

For descending long or steep hills, a driver should:

a) engage a high gear to minimise RPM and wear b) engage a lower gear during the descent c) engage the required gear before descent

commences



Correct Incorrect When slowing or stopping, gear changing should:

a) include all intermediate ratios available b) engage only the gear that will be next

needed

Negotiating a sharp corner, the required gear is engaged:

a) before entering the corner b) at the sharpest point of the corner c) during the exit from the corner d) immediately after leaving the corner

The term “Progressive Shifting” means:

a) using maximum RPM in each gear before shifting b) attaining only enough RPM to reach

the next gear c) changing gear at the same RPM for every shift

The gear changing difference between petrol and diesel engines is:

a) diesel engines have higher torque at lower RPM

b) petrol engines pull better at low RPM

The term “Skip Shifting” means that the driver:

a) avoids de-clutching during gear shifts b) engages the most suitable gear regardless of

sequence

To engage a lower gear while moving on a slight downgrade:

a) decrease speed to well below that of the lowest gear

b) retain vehicle speed / gently decrease RPM



Activity 5: How are brakes efficiently used to control heavy rigid vehicles?


Correct Incorrect

Hydraulic brake systems:

a) force fluid pressure to cylinder pistons on each wheel

b) can suffer from water contamination, lowering the boiling point of the brake fluid

On steep downhills, brakes should be used:

a) very few times during the descent b) only for emergencies and unexpected conditions c) by applying and releasing quickly and frequently

Brake performance can be dangerously affected by:

a) water on the friction surfaces b) overheating and brake fade through overuse c) using gears which are too low for some sections

of the hill d) the nature of the road surface

To use brakes safely and efficiently you should:

a) avoid braking in curves or corners if possible b) use less braking for lighter loads c) test brakes after driving through water



Activity 6: What type of questions are likely to lead to the issue of a license to drive heavy rigid vehicles?

The issue of a license will partly depend on how well you can answer questions similar to those that follow.

Check your answers to the questions with your trainer.

Tick or circle the correct answer, or write your answers in spaces provided

1. When any vehicle negotiates a curve or turn, the rear wheels follow a shorter path than the front ones. What is this called?

Answer: Cut In

2. Does the length of the vehicle and the sharper the turn affect the cut-in aspect? - Yes or No?

Answer: Yes

3. When steering a vehicle in reverse, which way do you turn the steering wheel?

Answer: In the direction you want the back end to move

Question 4

4. Study the diagram below and indicate, by drawing a line between the vehicles, the correct line of travel (Good Driving Line):



5. Look at these diagrams and list the actions to be taken if you have:

1. Front Wheel Skid

a) during acceleration

• ease off accelerator • straighten front wheels • use brakes to slow or stop the vehicle • when skidding has stopped, re-commence acceleration and

steering more gently.

b) during braking

• ease off brakes • straighten front wheels • when skidding has stopped, re-commence braking and steering

more gently.



2. Drive Wheel Skid

• ease off accelerator or brakes • steer front wheels towards direction of skid • when skidding has stopped, gently re-apply the accelerator or

brakes.

Documents

TLIC407D - Drive Heavy Rigid Vehicle - Learner Guide