Nearly a half century of public safety

Date: 4/26/2007

In the 44 years since the job of Motor Carrier Specialist was created, the responsibilities and duties have increased exponentially (see About AMCOS button on this site), and by necessity, so too, have the skills required to perform it. In order to keep up, AMCOS-member MCS-1s have, of their own volition, embraced advanced computer skills – and for good reason: all aspects of the job will soon require full computer efficiency. To name just a few:

*MCS-1s contribute to the fully computerized federal ASPEN program inspections, for which the CHP is compensated

*MCS-1s assist with the federal new entrant NESAP compliance audits

*and, they lend a hand with the DMV’s Motor Carrier Permit evaluations and liability insurance compliance reviews.

Out from behind the computer, MCS-1s participate in:

*MCSAP tour bus and cargo tank strike teams.

*PUC strike force activities and fitness evaluations

*Hazardous material carrier security

*Highway Watch classroom instruction

*Interpreting lease agreements to determine and identify ownership status for compliance and enforcement involving leased carriers

*Conduct the CHP Commercial Industry Education Program classes

*and, help MCSTO-certified trainers work diligently with new employees.

In 2005, the latest year with comprehensive date, the above-mentioned jobs together with the core duties of AMCOS-member MCS-1s led to:

* 23,879 terminal inspections and ratings
* 12,915 carrier inspections and ratings
* 81,897 vehicle inspections
* 31,843 vehicle certifications
*227,561 record inspections

From all this, 124,172 violations were discovered.