Accra: The ongoing investigation into the alarming road safety issues in Ghana has turned its focus towards the braking systems of articulator trucks, highlighting a significant safety concern.
According to Ghana Web, the latest articulator trucks are equipped with an array of advanced braking systems designed to manage heavy loads and optimize safety. These include primary, secondary, and auxiliary systems such as service brakes, oil-cooled wet discs, retardation systems, and the anti-lock braking system (ABS).
The service brake serves as the primary system operated by drivers, while oil-cooled wet discs are standard in high-capacity trucks to enhance heat dissipation. Additionally, advanced systems like the Automatic Retarder Control (ARC) and Hydraulic/Transmission Retarder are employed to maintain controlled speeds on downhill slopes. Despite these advancements, most trucks in Ghana lack these sophisticated braking systems due to improper maintenance or deliberate disconnection by untrained mechanics.
The Ghanaian position on articulator truck braking systems reveals a concerning trend. Trucks imported into the country often arrive with functional brakes, but roadside mechanics, lacking technical knowledge, render them dysfunctional. This negligence stems from misconceptions that operational brakes cause tyre blowouts. The consequences of such actions are dire, leading to extended stopping distances, jackknife accidents, and increased risk of high-speed collisions.
The mechanical fallout from brake failure is equally alarming. The tractor's brakes, overburdened without the assistance of trailer brakes, suffer from overheating and brake fade, while the risk of tyre blowouts and structural damage escalates. The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) is urged to take immediate action to address this pressing issue.
Comparatively, the UK Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) employs targeted roadside checks using technology like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to ensure vehicle compliance and safety. Ghana is encouraged to adopt similar practices, starting with designated roadside check sites. The NRSA is also advised to recruit and train Automotive Technicians to enhance road safety measures across the country.