Materials Falling from Vehicles
When materials fall off vehicles, they can cause injuries, property damage, or road hazards. To prevent this, employers must use proper loading procedures, equipment, and safety practices.
Load vehicles carefully so that materials do not fall off.
Materials must be loaded, secured, and transported in a way that prevents them from shifting or falling during transit. Engineering controls and safe work practices are required to minimize risks to workers, the public, and property.
Key engineering controls and work practices include:
- Do not overload vehicles. Make sure the weight of the load does not exceed the vehicle’s rated capacity. Overloading can cause mechanical failures, poor handling, and falling materials.
- Load vehicles carefully. Place heavier items on the bottom and lighter materials on top. Arrange items so they cannot roll, slide, or tip over during travel.
- Balance the load. Distribute weight evenly from front to back and side to side. Uneven loads increase the chance of tipping or losing control of the vehicle.
- Fully contain materials. Loads must stay within the bed or container of the vehicle. Materials should not stick out from the sides or top. Trim the load to fit inside if needed.
- Use sideboards or bulkheads. These help contain materials and prevent them from falling off during turns, braking, or rough road conditions.
- Cover and secure loads. Use tarps, nets, or covers to prevent dust, debris, or loose materials from blowing off. Tie down or strap items securely before moving the vehicle.
- Inspect the load before travel. Perform a walk-around inspection to ensure the load is stable, secured, and all equipment is in place.
- Train drivers and loaders. Workers must be trained to safely load and inspect vehicles, use securing equipment, and recognize unsafe conditions.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-2. To prevent material from falling off of a vehicle what is a good control/practice to follow?
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