Safety in the operation of dump trucks is a concern that goes far beyond preserving the vehicle or cargo. Driving with the cargo box out of the correct position can put the driver, other road users and existing structures along the route at risk.
Therefore, the National Traffic Council (CONTRAN) established specific requirements for the safety systems used in these vehicles.
CONTRAN Resolution No. 859/2021 provides for safety systems for trucks with tipper bodies and tractor trucks intended for the movement and operation of towed vehicles with tipper bodies. The standard uses as a reference the safety devices defined by ABNT NBR 16141:2019.
What does CONTRAN Resolution 859 require?
The resolution establishes the use of systems designed to reduce the risk of improper vehicle operation or circulation.
Among them are two mandatory devices:
- Primary Safety Device: has the function of preventing the involuntary activation of the power take-off. To activate it, there must be two controls or a two-stage command, activated manually.
- Secondary safety device: consists of a visual and audible warning system installed in the cabin, designed to alert the operator when the power take-off is activated and when the cargo box is out of its initial position.
The resolution also provides for a tertiary safety device, of optional use, capable of electronically controlling the activation of the power take-off so that the truck does not exceed 10 km/h with it turned on.
In addition to the primary and secondary devices, the regulations establish other requirements, such as the presence of a safety warning in a location visible to the driver and the provision, by the implementer, of the tipping system operating manual and a description of the safety system.
And what changes in 2027?
The deadlines for adapting vehicles that were already in circulation were postponed.
CONTRAN Resolution No. 1,007/2024 amended Resolution 859/2021 and established that, for vehicles covered by the suitability rule, the requirement for the Vehicle Safety Certificate (CSV) will occur at the time of licensing in 2027, respecting the licensing calendar of each State or the Federal District. The amendment also established January 1, 2027 for another requirement provided for in § 2 of article 7 of Resolution 859.
Therefore, although there has been a postponement, 2027 will be an important milestone for the adaptation of dump trucks that are already in circulation.
For implement manufacturers, retrofit companies, transporters and fleet owners, getting ahead allows you to plan adjustments and, most importantly, incorporate a solution that aims to increase the safety of operations.
Security that goes beyond compliance with the norm
The need for this type of protection becomes even clearer when we observe accidents involving dump trucks traveling with the box raised.
One of the most serious cases recorded in Brazil occurred on the Presidente Dutra Highway, in Guarulhos (SP), in 1997. A dump truck was traveling with the bucket open when it hit a 36-ton metal walkway. The structure fell onto the highway, causing a series of collisions. Seven people died and another 20 were injured.
It is an extreme case, but it demonstrates the consequences that a seemingly simple operational failure can produce.
Alert systems exist precisely to add a layer of protection to the operation: if the box is not in its normal transport position, the driver needs to be warned before this condition turns into an accident.
The Tecnnic solution for dump trucks
Attentive to the needs of implement manufacturers, retrofit companies and heavy vehicle operators, Tecnnic developed a solution for application in dump trucks that meets the signaling needs provided for by regulations, offering the driver visual and audible indication of the conditions monitored by the system.
The set allows you to incorporate a safety solution into the vehicle in a practical way, helping manufacturers and companies responsible for retrofitting in adapting trucks to applicable requirements.
More than meeting a regulatory obligation, it is about using technology to reduce risks in daily operations.
For those who work daily with heavy vehicles, information presented at the right time can prevent damage to equipment, infrastructure and, most importantly, preserve lives.
Tecnnic follows transport needs
Already Tecnnic, we seek to develop solutions not only based on the demands presented directly by our customers or the opportunities we identify with them. We are also attentive to regulatory changes, market needs and the challenges encountered in everyday road transport.
Our goal is for manufacturers and retrofit companies to find solutions at Tecnnic to make their equipment safer, more efficient and prepared for market demands.
This attention is especially present in segments where vehicles face severe conditions of use, such as mining, construction, agriculture and other operations that use trucks and tipping implements.
By Celso Menezes
Commercial Manager at Tecnnic Eletrônica Industrial
Frequently Asked Questions about CONTRAN Resolution 859/2021 (FAQ)
What does CONTRAN Resolution 859/2021 require for dump trucks?
The standard requires the installation of safety devices to prevent accidents with the cargo box raised: a primary device (which prevents the involuntary activation of the power take-off) and a secondary device (audible and visual warning system in the cabin to warn about the power take-off being switched on and the bucket out of its initial position).
What is the final adaptation deadline for vehicles in circulation?
According to the change made by CONTRAN Resolution No. 1,007/2024, the requirement for a Vehicle Safety Certificate (CSV) for vehicles covered by the rule will occur at the time of vehicle licensing. 2027, respecting the DETRAN calendar of each State.
How does Tecnnic help in adapting to the CONTRAN standard?
Tecnnic has developed a complete visual and audible signaling system that is easy to install, which strictly meets regulatory requirements. The solution is ideal for implement manufacturers, retrofit companies and fleet owners looking to adapt their vehicles with safety and technological efficiency.
