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Waste Management Fleet Compliance Checklist

Complete inspection checklist covering DOT/FMCSA fleet compliance, EPA environmental requirements, and OSHA workplace safety. Keep trucks running, pass DOT audits, and maintain complete documentation.

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Updated Feb 2026

The Hidden Cost of Reactive Compliance

DOT audits, EPA inspections, mid-route breakdowns. Most waste haulers are one surprise inspection away from out-of-service orders and fines.

93%
of motor carriers
fail DOT audits with at least one violation
$19,277
maximum fine
for operating an out-of-service vehicle
60%+
of maintenance costs
spent on emergency repairs vs preventive maintenance

This checklist helps you stay organized. See how to automate it with Infodeck.

Complete Fleet Compliance Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure your waste management fleet meets all DOT, EPA, and OSHA requirements. Click any section to expand or collapse.

Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs)

Preventive Maintenance Program

Driver Qualification Files

Hours of Service (HOS)

Drug & Alcohol Testing

Brake Systems

Hydraulic & Compactor Systems

Lighting & Electrical

Body & Container Equipment

Waste Handling & Documentation

Transfer Station Operations

Spill Prevention & Response

Air Quality & Emissions

Personal Protective Equipment

HAZWOPER Compliance (if applicable)

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)

Injury Prevention

Route Efficiency

Smart Bin Monitoring (if equipped)

GPS & Telematics

Municipal Contract Compliance

Total inspection items: 80+ tasks across 5 compliance categories
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Smart Automation

Where IoT Can Transform Your Fleet

Smart sensors and telematics can automate compliance tracking, predict maintenance needs, and optimize collection routes - reducing breakdowns and paperwork.

Smart Bin Fill-Level

Eliminates: Unnecessary collection trips

Route optimization based on actual fill levels

GPS Service Verification

Proves: Collection occurred at each stop

Timestamped proof ends customer disputes

Engine Diagnostics

Prevents: Mid-route breakdowns

Fault codes trigger PM work orders automatically

Odometer-Based PM

Replaces: Calendar-based guessing

Auto-schedules oil changes, brake inspections

Hydraulic Monitoring

Monitors: Compactor system health

Pressure alerts before pump failure

ELD Integration

Automates: HOS compliance tracking

Alerts before hours violations occur

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Disclaimer

This checklist is provided as a general guide based on FMCSA 49 CFR Parts 390-399, EPA RCRA regulations (40 CFR Parts 239-282), and OSHA 29 CFR 1910. Requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction. Always verify specific requirements with your state DOT, local EPA regional office, and applicable authorities.

Sources: FMCSA Regulations , EPA RCRA Regulations , OSHA HAZWOPER Standard , DOT Vehicle Inspection (49 CFR 396)

Last updated: February 2026