Transport Truck and Heavy Goods Vehicle Safety

Date: 2025-09-07

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To ensure all personnel understand the safety procedures and potential hazards associated with operating and maintaining transport trucks and heavy goods vehicles.

Introduction

This toolbox talk covers essential safety procedures for operating and maintaining transport trucks and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). It emphasizes pre-operation checks, safe loading/unloading, and emergency response.

Key Points

• Pre-Operation Inspection: Before operating any transport truck or HGV, a thorough inspection is crucial. This includes checking fluid levels, tire pressure, brakes, lights, and all safety equipment. Report any defects immediately and ensure they are repaired before use.
• Safe Loading and Unloading: Ensure the vehicle is properly secured before loading or unloading. Use appropriate equipment for the load and never exceed the vehicle's rated capacity. Secure the load to prevent shifting during transit.
• General Operating Rules: Always safeguard other employees. Do not allow anyone to stand or pass under the elevated portion of any powered industrial truck, whether loaded or empty. No employee, except the operator, shall ride on a powered industrial truck unless the truck is provided with a passenger seat. [2]
• Safe Driving Practices: Maintain a safe following distance, especially in adverse conditions. Slow down at crossings and intersections. Be aware of overhead obstacles and maintain a clear view of your surroundings. Avoid stunt driving and horseplay. [5]
• Emergency Procedures: Know the location of emergency equipment, such as fire extinguishers and first aid kits. Be familiar with emergency shutdown procedures and evacuation routes. Report all accidents and incidents immediately.
• Stowing & Transporting: Visually inspect the alignment of the loading ramp and the truck or trailer. They should both be on the same straight line. Chock the wheels of the truck or trailer so it cannot roll away form the loading ramp while the ATB 60 is being loaded. [3]

Hazard Identification

• Mechanical Failure: Brake failure, steering malfunction, or tire blowout can lead to accidents, collisions, and serious injuries.
• Load Shifting: Improperly secured loads can shift during transit, causing instability, loss of control, and potential cargo damage or spillage.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Slippery surfaces, uneven terrain, and obstacles can lead to falls during loading/unloading or inspection activities.
• Collision with Objects/Personnel: Lack of visibility, distracted driving, or inadequate signaling can result in collisions with other vehicles, equipment, or personnel.
• Overloading: Exceeding the vehicle's weight capacity can cause structural damage, reduced braking performance, and increased risk of accidents.

Control Measures

• Conduct Pre-Trip Inspections: Use a checklist to ensure all critical components are inspected before each trip. Address any issues before operating the vehicle. [2]
• Secure Loads Properly: Use appropriate tie-downs, straps, or chains to secure the load. Distribute weight evenly and prevent shifting during transit. [4]
• Maintain Safe Speed and Following Distance: Adjust speed to road conditions and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Avoid sudden stops or turns. [5]
• Use Spotters and Signals: When maneuvering in tight spaces or areas with limited visibility, use spotters to guide the driver and provide clear signals. [5]
• Provide Adequate Lighting: Ensure sufficient lighting in loading/unloading areas and during nighttime operations. Use headlights, taillights, and reflective gear to enhance visibility. [5]
• Chock Wheels During Loading/Unloading: Always chock the wheels of trucks and trailers to prevent movement during loading and unloading operations. [3]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• High-Visibility Vest: Wear a high-visibility vest to ensure you are seen by other workers and vehicle operators, especially in low-light conditions or busy areas.
• Steel-Toed Boots: Wear steel-toed boots to protect your feet from impacts, crushing injuries, and punctures, especially when handling heavy loads or working in areas with potential falling objects.
• Gloves: Use gloves to protect your hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemical exposure when handling cargo, tools, or equipment.
• Safety Glasses: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust, debris, and other potential hazards, especially during inspection and maintenance activities.

Real-World Example or Case Study

A transport truck driver failed to properly secure a load of pipes. During transit, the load shifted, causing the truck to become unstable and overturn. The driver sustained serious injuries, and the accident resulted in significant property damage and environmental cleanup costs. This incident highlights the importance of proper load securement and adherence to safety procedures.

Emergency Procedures

1. In case of an accident, immediately stop the vehicle and assess the situation.
2. Administer first aid to any injured personnel and call for emergency medical assistance if needed.
3. Report the incident to your supervisor and follow company protocols for accident reporting and investigation.
4. If the vehicle is disabled, follow established procedures for towing or recovery. [1]

Questions and Answers

• Q: What should I do if I find a defect during the pre-trip inspection?

A: Report the defect immediately to your supervisor and do not operate the vehicle until it is repaired.

• Q: How often should I inspect my vehicle?

A: A pre-trip inspection should be conducted before each shift or trip.

• Q: What is the safe following distance?

A: Maintain a distance of approximately 3 truck lengths from the vehicle ahead, adjusting for speed and road conditions. [5]

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Always conduct thorough pre-trip inspections.
• Secure loads properly to prevent shifting.
• Maintain safe driving practices and following distances.
• Know and follow emergency procedures.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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