Dump Truck Safety Tips
Whether it's for the purpose of debris removal or earth moving, dump trucks are an important tool on just about any construction site. However, they do pose some dangers, and minimizing these risks begins with safe operation. Make sure you are operating your dump trucks with superior safety in mind.
Perform Daily Inspections
Safe operation begins with daily inspections. Any time the dump truck sits overnight, it needs to be inspected before it is used. Start by performing a complete walk-around of the truck. Look on its underside to see if there is any liquid that might indicate some type of fluid leak.
Inspect the tires. Are they inflated properly, or are there any lug nuts missing? You should also ensure the windshield is clean and free of any cracks, that all lights are functioning properly and that the backup alarm works correctly. The dump truck should only be used if it passes a complete inspection.
Monitor Ground Conditions
The risk of a tipping mishap is a real and dangerous concern for dump trucks. In the event of a tip over, the truck would sustain significant damage and produce fatal injuries. When the box portion of the truck is elevated, the truck's center of gravity is shifted, putting it at a greater risk for tipping.
If the ground conditions where the truck is operating aren't stable, this only intensifies this risk. Ensure the ground is stable. Soft spots in the terrain are never a good thing. Secondly, ensure the surface is level. Any level inconsistencies also increase the tip-over risk. If the ground conditions are not conducive to safe operation, don't operate the truck.
Communicate With The Crew
Good communication is another important safety component you need to incorporate in your daily operations. It is imperative that other crew members have a clear understanding of what areas the truck will be operating in and what route it will be traveling along.
This is an important part of avoiding an accident. Providing this information allows your crew members to clear the area and also ensure that any other large equipment is out of the way when the dump truck is nearby. A two-way radio system offers an excellent portal for this communication.
Safety is a team goal that everyone must work towards together. Make sure every member of your working crew is dedicated to keeping everyone on site safe. If you're having issues with your truck, contact a company like Correct Truck and Trailer rather than taking risks with a faulty truck.