Vehicle Operation and Maintenance Flashcards

Which NYC DSNY requirement mandates that all new collection vehicles must meet specific emissions standards?

Answer: Federal EPA Tier 4 emission standards and NYC Clean Fleet requirements

NYC's commitment to clean air requires its own DSNY fleet to meet the strictest EPA Tier 4 and city clean fleet emission standards.

What does 'GVW' stand for in the context of DSNY collection truck specifications?

Answer: Gross Vehicle Weight

GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight) is the maximum operating weight of the loaded truck — exceeding it is illegal on NYC roads.

How does a DSNY side-loader collection truck differ operationally from a rear-loader?

Answer: Side-loaders use a mechanical arm to pick up standardized containers from the curb without a worker handling the bin

Side-loaders use an automated arm to lift and empty standardized containers, reducing crew size and manual lifting injuries.

What is the purpose of the 'tailgate' mechanism on a rear-loading collection truck?

Answer: To seal the truck body during transport and open to discharge the load at the disposal facility

The tailgate seals the loaded truck body during transport and hydraulically opens at the transfer station or landfill to discharge the compacted load.

Under DSNY operator rules, when is a DSNY driver required to conduct a post-trip inspection?

Answer: At the end of every shift before leaving the vehicle

Post-trip inspections are mandatory after every shift to identify and document any new defects for the maintenance team.

What is the DSNY protocol when a collection truck's 'check engine' light illuminates during an active route?

Answer: Notify dispatch immediately — the supervisor determines if the vehicle should be taken out of service

A check engine light requires immediate dispatch notification so a supervisor can assess whether the vehicle is safe to continue operating.