On Friday, September 3, 2010, a 37-year old Truck Driver with approximately two years experience was killed when the haul truck he was operating struck another truck from behind. The lead truck had stopped short of the pit, while a bulldozer pushed up material for the track-hoe to load. The victim, returning from dumping, ran into the bed of the lead truck.
Best Practices
- Conduct adequate pre-operational examinations before placing equipment into operation and ensure all lights are operational.
- Use cab and vehicle marker lights at all times when vehicles are in use during low light conditions, even when stationary/parking.
- Provide adequate illumination for all work areas where visibility is critical.
- Maintain control of equipment at all times, making allowances for the prevailing conditions (low visibility, inclement weather, etc).
- Consider providing proximity detection devices to mobile equipment when the possibility of collision with other mobile equipment is present.
- Routinely monitor work habits and examine work areas to insure that safe work procedures are followed.
- Communicate actions and intent to co-workers, especially if non-routine or out of the ordinary.
- When waiting to be loaded, take the vehicle out of gear and set the parking brake.
- Stay alert, stay awake, and pay attention to the task.
Click here for: MSHA Preliminary Report (pdf)