Dump Truck Safety Precautions

Dump Truck Safety Precautions

There are many vehicles used at the construction site that require specific safety precautions due to their unique nature, and dump trucks are no exception. Share the following tips with dump truck drivers:

Dump Truck Dos

  • Do make sure the ground is stable before raising the truck bed. The truck becomes less stable as the bed rises, and the greater the bed’s length, the greater the chances of it tipping over, especially if the ground is not level. Unload on compacted soil or gravel when possible.
  • Do make sure the load’s centre of gravity stays between the frame rails of the bed as it rises. Even low tire pressure on one side or small ground depressions can throw off this balance. Learning to evenly distribute the load throughout the bed is a good way to mitigate this hazard.
  • Do ensure that the truck bed always has a liner to guarantee the even, continuous flow of materials. This protects against an unbalanced load and is especially important when dealing with wet or frozen material that may stick to the bed. If your truck’s bed is damaged, contact your supervisor.
  • Do make sure the tractor and trailer are in as straight a line as possible. Jack-knifed alignments can cause unsafe situations for the truck and surrounding workers if the trailer does tip.
  • Do keep up with daily maintenance of the truck. Check tire pressure, inspect the suspension systems/hydraulic lift cylinders and regularly lubricate pins and pushings.
  • Do become trained in how to use hand signals or warning signs for two-person unloading operations.

Dump Truck Don’ts

  • Do not overload the dump bed. This is an unsafe practise and can cause problems in unloading, especially if the material flows poorly out of the bed.
  • Do not assume that a remote control device controlling the dump bed means it is safe to take unnecessary risks. Drivers should still follow all safety guidelines even if a remote control makes it easier to manoeuvre the truck bed.
  • Do not allow any vehicles or people in the area when unloading the truck. Clear an area if necessary to ensure the conditions are proper for dumping the bed.
  • Do not drive with the bed raised. It is important to understand the dangers of this activity. For example, you could run into an overhead power line, electrocuting yourself and anyone else in the vehicle.
  • Do not work between the bed and the frame without blocking the dump bed.

For more best practices, or to find out how to reduce your trucking insurance costs call CMB at 780.424.2727 or click here to get a quote