Posted on 28th September 2016 by Hintons
Safety is paramount when driving and operating large pieces of heavy machinery, however, in recent years there has been an increasing number of accidents involving heavy goods vehicles in the UK. Here, we will discuss the dangers and problems that tipper truck drivers, as well as others on site, may face if the correct health and safety procedures are not carried out. This article will also explain how tipper trucks must be handled to reduce any risk during operation.
Risk of Tipper Deliveries
UK statistics show that approximately 20 tipper trucks overturn per year whilst in use, causing serious injuries and even proving fatal to those using the equipment, as well as those working on site. In fact, on average there are 10 fatalities caused by moving tipper trucks per year, so it’s imperative that all of the correct health and safety procedures are adhered to during a tipper delivery.
Communication Between Tipper Drivers And Site Operators
First and foremost, it must be stressed that tipper trucks should only be operated by a fully qualified professional who has the experience and training to work this heavy piece of machinery.
As with most workplaces, communication is key between all employees to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible. However, when it comes to operating a tipper truck, communication between tipper drivers and site operators can be the difference between life and death.
According to the HSE, site operators and tipper truck drivers need to be in constant communication, “making sure that everyone is aware tipping is about the happen and only those people involved in the tipping are in the immediate area.” Health and safety guidance for tipper truck operation includes:
- Where possible, wheel stops must be used to help position the vehicle
- The vehicle must not be left unattended
- There must be no overhead obstacles (overhead power cables are one of the main causes of incidents involving tipper trucks)
- The tipping site must be level, firm and stable
- The load must be evenly distributed across the vehicle
- No one should be allowed to stand or walk behind the vehicle
Safety Measures
A safe system of work is a formal procedure of safety checks which will ensure all hazards are identified and that the safest methods are used to minimise any risk. These checks will cover:
- Entrances and exits: is there safe traffic access?
- Visibility: can drivers see both ways?
- Clothing: are all parties involved wearing hi-vis clothing?
- Walkways and crossings: is everything clearly signed?
- Tipping areas: are the areas suitable for heavy tipping trucks?
Hinton’s Waste
For health and safety reasons, here at Hinton’s we do not let anyone other than one of our own fully qualified operators load our tipper trucks to avoid overloading issues. We offer a comprehensive range of tipper hire services, such as the collection and delivery of aggregates, tailoring our services to suit your requirements. To find out more about our specialist tipper or grab hire services throughout London, Croydon and the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to get in touch today!