On a large rigid-frame dump truck equipped with 27.00R49 tires, during your pre-operation inspection, you find that one tire has a visible buldge on the sidewall. The manufacturer's service manual states that a buldge over 25 mm in diameter means the tire is compromised. Your tape measure shows the buldge is 35 mm. What should you do?

Question: On a large rigid-frame dump truck equipped with 27.00R49 tires, during your pre-operation inspection, you find that one tire has a visible buldge on the sidewall. The manufacturer's service manual states that a buldge over 25 mm in diameter means the tire is compromised. Your tape measure shows the buldge is 35 mm. What should you do?

Answer options:

• Mark the bulge with chalk and monitor its size throughout the day.
• Deflate the tire slightly to reduce pressure on the bulge and continue operations. ✅ Immediately remove the vehicle from service and notify maintenance for tire replacement.
• Inform a co-worker and complete your shift, advising the next operator.

Correct answer: Immediately remove the vehicle from service and notify maintenance for tire replacement.

Explanation: A bulge in a tire sidewall indicates a structural failure of the tire's internal cords, posing a high risk of catastrophic tire blowout. Exceeding the manufacturer's specified limit requires immediate removal from service to prevent a serious incident. (OHS/OH&S regulations, tire safety guidelines from CCOHS)