Part of our Zero4Life: Let’s do it! strategy is to address key common challenges with actions that can be implemented in the short-term. One of those challenges relates to injuries and incidents caused by getting in/out of vehicles and mobile equipment.

A simple slip on a few steps or a fall from a cab can result in serious injury.

Recently, there have been several incidents where Drivers have fallen from trucks or mobile equipment cabs. These have been a result of either incorrect hand hold points, carrying objects, different step configurations or just purely a lack of concentration. Injuries vary from broken collar bones, cuts to head or rolled / twisted ankles.

Action required by Managers

·         Local teams discuss ideas to reduce tasks that minimise the number of times a Driver needs to get in/out of the vehicle.

·         Ensure Get a Grip (or equivalent) stickers are in place in all relevant vehicles and mobile equipment, and in a prominent position that reminds drivers/operators when getting into/out of vehicles.

·         Local Supervisors to hold a safety/toolbox talk on getting into/out of vehicles.  The poster can be displayed for promotional purposes too. You can find both on the UK News download page here and here

·         Put a plan in place to have, where permitted, grab handles and at least the bottom step highlighted e.g. using a different colour.

·         To keep reinforcing the concept of the mental switch from a Driver/Operator to a pedestrian when getting out from the truck (and vice versa).   Note that some trials are ongoing about devices that might help with this, and information will be communicated as and when available and relevant.