What is required during agency vehicle inspections?

• A. Members shall inspect agency vehicles before and after each shift to ensure they are clean and in proper working order.
• B. Members must inspect agency vehicles only at the start of each shift.
• C. There is no requirement for vehicle inspection.
• D. Inspections are performed only after any incident.

Answer: (A)

Vehicle inspections are a routine, proactive safety practice that should happen before and after each shift to verify that the vehicle is clean, safe, and ready to operate. Before starting a shift, checking the vehicle ensures there are no mechanical issues, fluid levels are adequate, lights and brakes function, tires are in good condition, and emergency or safety equipment is present and accessible. If something isn’t right, it shouldn’t be used until it’s repaired, preventing surprises on the road or in the field.

After a shift, another check looks for problems that may have developed during use and ensures any used equipment is restocked or reset for the next person. This post-shift review helps catch issues early, keeps the vehicle ready for the next assignment, and supports accountability for the condition of agency assets.

Choosing only a start-of-shift inspection would miss issues that arise during operation, and claiming there’s no requirement or that inspections are only after an incident is reactive rather than preventive. Therefore, inspecting before and after each shift best supports safety, reliability, and readiness.