Trailer Towing Safe Work Procedure

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This safe work procedure outlines the necessary steps and safety precautions for the safe towing of trailers, including pre-trip inspections, proper hook-up procedures, securement of loads, safe driving practices, and unhooking procedures. It applies to all workers who are required to tow trailers as part of their job duties.

2. Definitions

GVWR Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: The maximum permissible weight of the trailer, including the weight of the trailer itself and the maximum load it is designed to carry. Coupler The component on the trailer that attaches to the ball hitch on the tow vehicle. Breakaway Cable A safety cable that automatically applies the trailer brakes if the trailer becomes separated from the tow vehicle.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Supervisors are responsible for training their workers on this operation. [1]

3.2 Workers

• Workers are to be aware of hazards when connecting a trailer, towing a trailer and unhooking a trailer. [1]

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE is required when performing trailer towing activities to minimize the risk of injury.

• High-Visibility Safety Vest: A high-visibility safety vest is required to ensure the worker is visible to other workers and vehicle operators.
• Safety Footwear: Safety footwear with steel toes and slip-resistant soles is required to protect feet from potential impact and slip hazards.
• Gloves: Gloves are required to protect hands from cuts, abrasions, and other hazards.

1. Inspect gloves for tears or punctures before each use. Replace as needed. 2. Inspect safety glasses for cracks or damage. Clean regularly. 3. Inspect high-visibility vests for tears or fading. Replace as needed. 4. Inspect safety footwear for damage to the soles or steel toes. Replace as needed.

6. Equipment and Tools

Proper equipment and tools are essential for safe trailer towing. All equipment must be inspected before use to ensure it is in good working condition.

• Wheel chocks: Used to prevent the trailer from rolling during hitching and unhitching.
• Gloves: To protect hands during the hitching and unhitching process.
• Safety Glasses: To protect eyes from debris during inspection and maintenance.
• Torque Wrench: To ensure proper tightening of lug nuts.

1. Hitch and Coupler: Inspect for cracks, wear, and proper operation before each use. Lubricate regularly. 2. Safety Chains: Inspect for damage and proper attachment points before each use. Ensure they are the correct length. 3. Tires: Check tire pressure and tread depth before each use. Look for signs of wear or damage. Replace as needed. 4. Lights: Test all lights before each use. Replace any burned-out bulbs or damaged lenses. 5. Brakes: Inspect brake pads and rotors for wear. Test brake function before each use.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All personnel involved in towing trailers must be trained and competent in the following areas:

• Proper hitching and unhitching procedures
• Load securement techniques
• Safe driving practices for towing
• Pre-trip inspection procedures
• Relevant regulations and standards

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: Conduct a pre-job briefing with all personnel involved to discuss the following:

• The task at hand and the specific requirements
• Potential hazards and associated risks
• Control measures to be implemented
• Emergency procedures
• Communication protocols

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Ensure the work area is free from obstructions and hazards. This includes:

• Adequate lighting
• Level ground for hitching and unhitching
• Sufficient space to maneuver the tow vehicle and trailer

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

1. Pre-Trip Inspection: Complete a pre-use inspection of the tow vehicle and trailer that will be used. Use the applicable digital form. Do a walk-around of the trailer to ensure all items are present and in working order, including lights, license plate, insurance, registration, wheels, tires and trailer brakes. Do not use the trailer if anything that affects towing safely is deficient. Report all problems immediately. [1]
2. Hitching the Trailer: 1. Check the tow vehicle and hitch ratings to make sure the tow vehicle is appropriate for the trailer and the load; check the manufacturer specifications. 2. Check the ball size and the hitch size. They need to be the same. 3. Use the lifting device (if equipped) to raise the trailer hitch to the proper level. 4. Have somebody help you back in the vehicle (if available). Reverse to the trailer hitch stopping a few feet away to verify the correct alignment. 5. Continue reversing a few inches at a time, stopping and getting out each time to verify the alignment between the hitch and the ball. 6. Stop when only a few inches away from the hitch and verify the height of the hitch is above the ball. 7. Reverse to the hitch SLOWLY until the hitch is centered above the ball. 8. Lower the lifting device so the hitch will slip onto the ball. Visually verify that the trailer hitch is seated all the way down onto the ball. 9. Close the latch and secure the pin. 10. Use the lifting device and raise the height of the hitch. If the hitch is seated correctly on the ball and the latch is secured the hitch will not disconnect off the ball. 11. Raise the lifting device (landing gear) and secure into place for transport. 12. Hook up the chains on opposite sides in a crisscross or basket configuration. 13. Attach the electrical plug to the tow unit. Test all lights for function, including brake lights, signal lights and hazard lights. 14. Remove wheel blocks. 15. Check that trailer brakes (if equipped); and ball and hitch are seated properly by giving a tug test. Pull the trailer brake-away cable pin from the trailer brake control box. Slowly pull the tow vehicle ahead a few feet to ensure the trailer brakes are engaged tires will skid not turn. Return the trailer brake-away cable pin to the trailer brake control box. Slowly pull the tow vehicle ahead a few feet to ensure the trailer brake are disengaged and the tires move freely. [1] [2]
3. Loading the Trailer: 1. Do not load trailers beyond their rated capacity. 2. Trailers need to be loaded evenly from side to side. Additionally, the front-to-back weighting needs to be close to equal, with an additional 10 to 20 percent of the weight on the front half of the trailer. 3. Loading should always be heaviest over the trailer axles, not at the tongue. 4. Ensure that loads are secured to the trailer so that they do not move independently of the trailer, when rocked back and forth by hand. 5. Follow 3 point Tie-Down Rule: Secure front, middle, and rear of the load. MORE STRAPS IS BETTER. 6. Verify the tie down connection points are fully secure. 7. Round materials require bracing with dunnage and “up and over BELLY wrap technique”. [2] [2] [2] [2]
4. Towing the Trailer: 1. Wider turns are key to prevent the trailer from hitting curbs or other obstacles. 2. Keep speed steady and moderate. Do not drive at excessive speeds. 3. If experiencing trailer sway, ease off the accelerator and gently apply the brakes. Avoid heavy braking. 4. Consistently check the mirrors to track the trailers position and the load on the trailer. 5. If materials or equipment have moved or shifted, stop, pull over when safe to do so and adjust the straps/chains. 6. Depending upon the weight of the trailer, you will need extra room to stop. Allow for extra braking distance. 7. Pause after 10-20 km of towing to check all hitch connections, load tie downs and adjustments, and again each 100-200 km. [2] [2] [2] [2] [2] [2] [2]
5. Reversing the Trailer: 1. Align your vehicle and trailer in a straight line, then slowly reverse while keeping an eye on both side mirrors. 2. When the trailer becomes visible in one of the mirrors turn the top of the steering wheel to the side of the vehicle mirror you see the trailer in. 3. ALWAYS move slowly and make small movements with the steering wheel. 4. Do not jack-knife trailers when backing up; if trailer begins to jack-knife, pull ahead and attempt to back up further - it will only get worse. 5. If backing up without a guide, pick points of reference prior to backing up to track progress; if in doubt, get out and reassess the situation before continuing. [2] [2] [3] [3]
6. Unhooking the Trailer: 1. Block the wheels so the trailer does not move after being detached. 2. Insert a square block of wood under the hitch. 3. Lower the lifting device (landing gear) on top of the block of wood so the hitch will lift off the ball and give enough clearance to pull away from the trailer. 4. Remove the pin and lift the locking latch. 5. Disconnect the safety chains and lay them on the hitch. 6. Disconnect the electrical plug and lay it on the hitch. 7. Slowly pull the tow unit away from the trailer. 8. Install the trailer hitch lock - if equipped. [3] [3] [3] [3] [3] [3] [3] [3]
7. Post-Trip Inspection: Do a walk-around of the trailer to ensure all items are present and in working order, including tires in good condition and any damages or defects. Report all problems immediately to the assets personnel to have defect addressed. [3] [3]

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Always adhere to posted speed limits and adjust speed according to road conditions.
• Maintain a safe following distance, allowing for increased braking distance when towing.
• Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or steering maneuvers.
• Be aware of the trailer's width and height when maneuvering in tight spaces or under overhead obstructions.
• Make regular stops to check the hitch connection, load securement, and tire condition.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, follow these general procedures: 1. Assess the situation and ensure your safety and the safety of others. 2. If possible, safely move the tow vehicle and trailer to the side of the road or a safe location. 3. Activate hazard lights to warn other drivers. 4. Contact emergency services (911) if necessary. 5. Provide first aid to any injured persons. 6. Do not attempt to move the trailer or its load until authorized by emergency services or a qualified professional.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Trailer Detachment: 1. If the trailer detaches from the tow vehicle, immediately apply the tow vehicle's brakes. 2. Steer the tow vehicle in a straight line to avoid losing control. 3. Once stopped, assess the situation and ensure the safety of yourself and others. 4. If the trailer has a breakaway brake system, it should activate automatically. If not, manually apply the trailer brakes if possible. 5. Contact emergency services if necessary. 6. Do not attempt to re-hitch the trailer until the area is safe and you have inspected the hitch and coupler for damage.
• Tire Blowout: 1. If a tire blows out on the tow vehicle or trailer, grip the steering wheel firmly and avoid sudden braking. 2. Steer the vehicle in a straight line and gradually reduce speed. 3. Once at a safe speed, carefully move the vehicle to the side of the road or a safe location. 4. Activate hazard lights. 5. Replace the flat tire with a spare tire or call for roadside assistance.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, near misses, and hazards related to trailer towing must be reported immediately to the supervisor. The report should include:

• Date, time, and location of the incident
• Description of what happened
• Any injuries or damages
• Contributing factors
• Corrective actions taken

All reported incidents will be investigated to determine the root cause and prevent recurrence. The investigation will involve:

• Gathering information from witnesses
• Examining the scene of the incident
• Reviewing relevant documents and procedures
• Identifying contributing factors
• Developing and implementing corrective actions

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]

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