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Joe Morten & Son, Inc.Jan 27, 2021 1:09:00 PM2 min read

Reducing Slips, Trips, and Falls Around the Truck

Slips, trips, and falls are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries. For drivers, these types of injuries commonly occur when improperly entering or exiting the cab and trailer.

The result can be quite painful and, in some cases, prove fatal. The key to avoiding a preventable injury is to recognize the hazards that contribute to slip, trip, and fall injuries associated with entering and exiting equipment, and knowing how to protect yourself from harm.

Read this information and put the recommendations into practice to help protect yourself and others.

RECOGNIZE THE HAZARDS 

 

ENVIRONMENT

Slippery surfaces, such as ice, snow, mud, and puddles, on and around the tractor and trailer, create hazards when entering or exiting equipment. Uneven surfaces including potholes and rocks can cause an injury.

EQUIPMENT

The tractor and trailer are elevated positions, so falling from equipment while entering or exiting can cause serious injuries. Likewise, if the cab steps are damaged or worn (including carpet), or the grab handles are broken or missing, a driver may slip and fall.

PERSONAL BEHAVIORS

Bad judgment and improper technique when entering and exiting equipment are two of the most common causes of broken bones, torn muscles and tendons, concussions, and even fatalities.

Hurrying, jumping from the cab or trailer, not paying attention, and carrying objects while trying to enter or exit equipment are examples of unsafe behaviors.

KNOW THE DEFENSE 

 

USE THREE POINTS OF CONTACT

Use three points of contact when entering or exiting equipment, meaning both hands and one foot or both feet and one hand are always in contact with the truck at all times. Always face the equipment when climbing on or off equipment, and keep your body as close to the equipment as possible. Do not hurry and NEVER jump from an elevated position.

UTILIZE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

Always wear footwear with slip-resistant soles and gloves for added grip. Never wear cowboy boots, sandals, or shoes with flat soles when working around the truck.

BE ATTENTIVE TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS

Check the ground around the truck for slip, trip, and fall hazards before entering or exiting equipment.

CONDUCT A PRE-TRIP VEHICLE INSPECTION 

Ensure truck steps and hand holds are not damaged or missing. Report deficiencies to a maintenance manager immediately.

AVOID DISTRACTIONS

Avoid distracted walking. Put away cell phones, clipboards, food, etc., before entering or exiting equipment. Focus on the task at hand. 

Note: These lists are not intended to be all-inclusive.


This material is intended to be a broad overview of the subject matter and is provided for informational purposes only. Great West Casualty Company does not provide legal advice to its insureds or other parties, nor does it advise insureds or other parties on employment-related issues, therefore the subject matter is not intended to serve as legal or employment advice for any issue(s) that may arise in the operations of its insureds or other parties. Legal advice should always be sought from legal counsel. Great West Casualty Company shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss, action, or inaction alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the information contained herein. Reprinted with permission from Great West Casualty Company.

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