What is the proper condition for glad hands used for service lines?

Glad hands are critical components in a truck's air brake system, facilitating the connection between the tractor and trailer by linking the service lines that control the brakes. For safe and efficient operation, it is essential that these connections are in optimal condition.

When glad hands are clean, latched, and secure, they ensure that the air flow necessary for the brakes to function properly is uninterrupted. A clean connection prevents contamination and potential failure of the air brakes due to dirt or debris obstructing the airflow. Being latched and secure guarantees that the connection will not accidentally disengage during operation, which could lead to a loss of brake functionality, posing a significant safety risk.

Other conditions, such as being broken, dirty, loose, unlatched, or needing to be replaced after every use, would hamper the reliable operation of the air brake system, leading to potential malfunctions or hazardous situations while driving. Therefore, the proper condition for glad hands is to be clean, latched, and secure to maintain safety and effectiveness on the road.