Truck drivers face dangers on a daily basis while on the road, including migrating deer, drowsiness at the wheel, and bad weather. While these are certainly dangerous and frightening, they are not the leading cause of injuries to truck drivers. In fact, the most common injuries happen while the truck is in park.
Slips, trips, and falls are a serious hazard to workers in all industries. These accidents can be the result of an object on the ground causing someone to fall, or tripping on something that is not properly maintained or even just simple obstacles like a small hole in the ground. These accidents frequently cause injuries such as broken bones, back injuries and even concussions.
While most of these injuries are non-life threatening, most require time to heal, which in turn requires time off of work. In order to avoid accidents and inconveniences like these, there are ways you can take precautions to keep yourself and others safe.
Follow Protocol
Companies have certain procedures in place to not only streamline work, but to keep employees safe at the same time. Before starting any work, review your task and make sure you are familiar with what you are supposed to do. Inspecting the area and equipment needed for your task will help you identify potential hazards.
Make sure you deal with any issues you find right away. Trying to work around hazards puts yourself as well as others at risk, so make sure they are dealt with quickly and efficiently.
Wear Your PPE
When you’re working around your tanker, it’s crucial that you use the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This equipment is available for you to keep you safe from potentially dangerous situations.
To prevent falls, for example, you should wear slip resistant gloves, non-slip boots, and a safety vest. When hauling fuel or chemicals, it’s crucial that you wear protective clothing that will keep harmful substances away from your skin.
Know Your Limits
You should always be aware of your limits when working at heights or climbing ladders, and take care not to push yourself too far. If you are feeling lightheaded or dizzy, it is important to take a break and get some fresh air.
Don’t rush yourself through a task, as this can put you at risk of injury. Pace yourself and use caution when working around a tanker truck. Parts of your job may include heavy lifting, so it’s important to practice safe lifting techniques to get the job done.
The Three Points of Contact
Drivers live and breathe by this rule. The three point contact rule is in place for working at heights because it provides stability and helps prevent slips and falls. When you’re on a ladder, make sure you always keep three points of contact, regardless of its height. Follow all safety precautions and use proper equipment whenever possible to ensure your own safety and that of those around you.
By following these simple steps and adhering to basic safety protocols, you can have a safe, enjoyable experience while driving a tanker truck. Good luck and stay safe!