Slips, trips, and falls are one of the most common injuries across all industries; and ready-mix drivers are no exception. Climbing in and out of mixer trucks, navigating job sites, plants, and wet surfaces increases the risk. Even one misstep can lead to serious injury. Here are targeted tips to help prevent these incidents.
Job Site & Plant Safety:
- Use proper steps and handholds when entering and exiting the mixer truck cab or platform; never jump down.
- Watch for wet concrete, mud, oil, or ice around loading zones, chutes, and washout areas.
- Be aware of uneven terrain, forms, rebar, hoses, and tools on the ground at job sites.
- Avoid walking backward, especially when pulling chutes or hoses; look before every step.
- Maintain clean work areas on the job site and around batch plants to prevent debris buildup.
Chute & Loading Area Hazards:
- Inspect chutes before use for buildup or obstructions that could affect footing.
- Clean up washout areas promptly, ensuring water and slurry are contained and not causing slip zones.
- Never climb on wet or unguarded surfaces; use catwalks or platforms with handrails when available.
- Secure tools and hoses to avoid creating unexpected trip hazards on or around the mixer.
Three Points of Contact:
- Always maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) when entering and exiting the cab or climbing onto the mixer platform.
- Use installed handrails and steps, never the tire, chute, or doorframe.
- Avoid rushing; take your time during every entry or exit from the truck or catwalk.
Housekeeping & Awareness:
- Regularly inspect truck steps, handrails, and ladders for wear, oil, or buildup.
- Report or clean up spills immediately at the batch plant or job site.
- Stay alert in active zones, especially near rebar mats, formwork edges, or high-traffic paths.
Conclusion:
Being on your feet and around heavy equipment all day makes slip, trip, and fall prevention part of your job. Stay alert, use the right steps and support, and don’t take shortcuts. It only takes one fall to change everything.