MAHA UK puts brake testing safety first
Workshop equipment specialist MAHA UK has issued guidance on the safe operation and maintenance of roller brake testers.
“In the fast-paced world of trucks and light commercial vehicles, safety is not just a priority – it’s an absolute necessity,” said the company.
“Nowhere is this truer than in the realm of brake testing, where ensuring the highest level of safety is paramount.”
When it comes to setting up a brake tester, says MAHA UK – like its MBT 7250, for example – the company leaves nothing to chance.
“The installation and setup of these type of equipment should always be handled by a MAHA service technician or an authorised service professional,” it said.
“This approach ensures that individuals with the right training, equipment and expertise are responsible for this crucial task.
“Potential hazards, such as the presence of electrical equipment near moisture, an inappropriate location for installation, or inadequate securing, can all be expertly addressed by a qualified technician approved by MAHA UK.
“By entrusting professionals with the installation process, MAHA UK ensures that these hazards are minimised, providing peace of mind to users.”
Not only is safe operation essential for the wellbeing of the user, the company adds, but it also significantly contributes to the longevity of the equipment.
“Only individuals who have received proper training should operate a brake tester, and it should be used strictly within its specified performance limits to ensure safe and accurate testing,” MAHA UK advised.
“Keeping the area around the brake tester clean is vital for both safety and the equipment’s performance…
“When the brake tester is not in use, it should be switched off, and the main switch should be secured with a padlock to prevent unauthorised restarts.”
In case of an emergency, says the firm, users should know how to use the main switch or emergency-stop switch to promptly shut down the system.
“Operating a vehicle engine in enclosed spaces can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, making adequate ventilation essential to prevent this hazard,” it added.
“Prior to driving a vehicle onto the tester, it is crucial to inspect the danger zone for any potential safety risks.”
MAHA UK also advised: “Unless equipped with a DC or mechanical brake (covered in training), for vehicles with a driven axle on the roller set, exiting should only be done with the roller drive running. Exiting with the roller drive at a standstill can cause extreme roller acceleration and motor/gearbox damage.”
Even during maintenance and servicing, the message remains as stringent.
The company recommends that service work should exclusively be carried out by MAHA service technicians or authorised service partners to guarantee expertise.
“Only trained electricians with the necessary skills should handle electrical parts of the system…
“Before conducting repair, maintenance, or setup work, the main switch should be switched off and secured with a padlock…
“Regularly clean the roller set to prevent fire hazards caused by rubber abrasion. Abrasion should be removed before any maintenance work begins…
“When working on the control cabinet or roller sets, exercise caution regarding overheating parts.”
If, unintentionally, the brake tester starts during maintenance, it should be shut down immediately, adds MAHA, and the service department should be contacted.
“Reassuringly, though, motors are isolated by disengaging the motor protection switches during maintenance/calibration, so this shouldn’t be possible!
“MAHA UK’s brake testers come equipped with distinctive and appropriate safety features designed to protect both users and equipment.”
Detailed information about these features can be found in the MBT 7250 user manual.
The company concluded: “Safety lies at the heart of everything MAHA UK does, whether it’s installing versatile lifts or vehicle inspection equipment.
“From commission and installation to operation and servicing, the workshop supplier prioritises the user every step of the way. Choosing MAHA UK means choosing a commitment to safety that ensures every time a MBT 7250 brake tester is used, it can be used with complete confidence.”
