What must be documented when a vehicle is removed from service?

When a vehicle is removed from service, detailing the critical defect is essential for several reasons. First, documenting this information provides a clear understanding of why the vehicle is not operational, which is vital for safety management. Knowing the specific issue allows for appropriate corrective actions to be taken to repair the defect and prevent future occurrences. This documentation is also crucial for regulatory compliance, as agencies may require records of critical defects for safety audits and inspections. Additionally, it aids in maintaining the integrity of the fleet by ensuring that all vehicles are adequately assessed for road safety before being returned to service.

While vehicle model and year, maintenance records, and driver's personal information could be relevant in other contexts, they do not capture the immediate safety concern associated with the vehicle being out of service. The primary focus in this scenario is understanding the reason for removal from service to address safety risks effectively.