Slips, trips, and falls are the highest occurring injury across all industries. This is no different for a truck driver. Something as simple as getting into and out of the cab of the truck multiple times a day increases these odds. A simple misstep could lead to a serious injury. Here are some tips to avoid this common injury.
Loading dock safety:
- Ensure that lock devices are in place each time before beginning to unload at a dock
- Be mindful of marked and unmarked walkways, barriers, parking and doorways that might be a trip hazard
- Make sure any available dock barricades are in place on edges of the dock; if not available, note the areas and avoid getting too close
- Do not take part in dock jumping which can lead to knee, ankle and back injury
- Ensure that dock plates or boards are in good condition and are intended for the load amounts that will be used
Housekeeping:
- Ensure docking areas have good housekeeping with no excess tripping hazards
- Do an inspection of truck/trailer floors before loading or unloading
- Watch out for areas of concern such as oil spots, broken pallets, debris and loose or missing handrails; quickly pick up/clean the area if needed before loading or unloading
Three points of contact:
- Be sure to have three points of contact with feet and hands when entering or exiting the cab or trailer
- Use designated railing and steps when doing so
- Use the three-point rule when climbing onto a tarped load as well, when possible use a fall restraint system