FCPD’s Motor Carrier Safety Unit Pumps the Brakes on Hazards for Commercial Drivers

Posted on by

Fairfax County, VA — The FCPD’s Motor Carrier Safety (MCS) Unit has been keeping our roadways safe for over 40 years. Officers assigned to this section are tasked with the responsibility of enforcing Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, Hazardous Material Regulations, the Virginia State Code, and the Fairfax County Code as it pertains to Commercial Motor Vehicles.

The MCS Unit is a team of seasoned officers dedicated to regulating and enforcing safety standards for commercial vehicles and their drivers throughout our county. This division works in collaboration with other agencies, such as the Department of Transportation, to ensure compliance with regulations set forth by local, state, and federal authorities.

In 2023, Fairfax County MCS officers conducted 15 static inspections and training exercises throughout the county. These operations yielded the following results:

Who We Are

The unit consists of one supervisor, four full-time officers, and six supplemental officers. These officers undergo extensive training to be certified as a Motor Carrier Safety officer.

MCS officers undergo the following training:

  • Initial Certification Training
  • General Hazmat Training
  • Cargo Tank Hazmat Training
  • Bulk Hazmat Training
  • Passenger Carrier (Bus) Training
  • Drug Interdiction Training
  • Commercial Motor Vehicle Counterterrorism Training
  • WMD Hazmat Training

In addition to the training, all MCS officers have commercial driver’s licenses and are responsible for driving the FCPD Command Vehicles. Within the unit, select officers hold additional certifications such as Academy Instructor, Range Instructor, Trail Bike Instructor, Speed Measurement Instructor, and Emergency Vehicle Operation Center (EVOC) Instructor.

What We Do

Officers assigned to MCS participate in motor vehicle enforcement programs, assist in crash investigations involving commercial motor vehicles, and support the overall mission of the Traffic Division. MCS officers check for proper vehicle maintenance, load securement, driver documentation, and adherence to hours-of-service regulations. This proactive enforcement helps identify any potential safety hazards and ensures that commercial drivers are operating within the legal limits.

The Motor Carrier Safety Unit recognizes the importance of education and training in maintaining safe roadways. They actively engage with commercial drivers and participate in initiatives to educate best practices, rules, and regulations. By providing comprehensive training sessions and resources, they provide drivers with the knowledge and skills required to operate their vehicles safely.

Are you interested in making a difference and becoming a Motor Carrier Safety officer? Start your FCPD career here. For ongoing updates, please read our blog and follow us on X, Facebook and Instagram at @FairfaxCountyPD.