The importance of safety is an unparalleled issue in the transportation, trucking, and hauling industry. Out of all the workplace deaths in Canada, the transportation industry accounted for 11% of those, and while we don't know the exact situation that surrounded each one, a large portion of them were likely preventable. That is why we decided to write this blog: to give our readers a few tips to keep in mind while on the open roads.
1) Watch your blind spots
This one applies to both truck drivers and other vehicles on the road. A truck's blind spots are behind the side mirrors, just in front of the cab, and directly behind the truck.
2) Reduce your speed in construction zones
One-third of all fatal work-zone accidents involve large trucks driving dangerously in work zones. Consider what percentage of time a truck is driving through a construction zone. It's absurdly small, but the fatalities represent 33% of all deaths. That's an incredibly high amount! When you see those work zone signs, be careful!
One-third of all fatal work-zone accidents involve large trucks driving dangerously in work zones. Consider what percentage of time a truck is driving through a construction zone. It's absurdly small, but the fatalities represent 33% of all deaths. That's an incredibly high amount! When you see those work zone signs, be careful!
3) Maintain & repair your truck
One of the most obvious and self explanatory points. Take your time and diligently perform your pre-trip and post-trip inspections. Be sure when it comes to CVIP your truck, take it to a qualified inspector that you trust. Remember, preventative maintenance and quality inspections are cheap alternatives. A poorly maintained vehicle could cost someone their life!
4) Load cargo wisely
If you do a simple google search of "truck falling over" you'll find countless examples of drivers who didn't secure their load properly.
5) Be aware of height and load restrictions.
Understand the route you're going to take, what the overpass and bridge height restrictions are, and how high your load is. This again plays into loading your cargo properly and understanding how safe your load is. If you are unsure how high your load is, take an extra few minutes and measure the height. If you are taking a route that you are unfamiliar with ask someone who has travelled the route before if there is anything that you should be aware of.
This one literally happened within the last month in Edmonton's downtown area! Read the story here: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/semi-truck-unstuck-at-entrance-to-high-level-bridge-1.3133204
6) Adjust for bad weather
Visibility can change in heavy rains, hails, snowfalls and snowstorms. When roads are wet or icy the distance it takes to brake greatly increases. Account for all these small changes and be constantly alert!
7) Take care of yourself
Again, staying alert and mentally clear is one of the most important aspects of a driver's safety and the safety of those around them. The subject is so important, we once did a blog topic on falling asleep at the wheel and covering how to combat those exhausted drivers. You can read about our tips to staying awake and alert on the job HERE.
8) Avoid distractions like cellphones and unnecessary electronic devices
Again, staying alert and mentally clear is one of the most important aspects of a driver's safety and the safety of those around them. The subject is so important, we once did a blog topic on falling asleep at the wheel and covering how to combat those exhausted drivers. You can read about our tips to staying awake and alert on the job HERE.
8) Avoid distractions like cellphones and unnecessary electronic devices
There's a reason that distracted driving laws are in place. Your attention must be on the road at all times!
9) Be professional and keep your cool when driving.
Getting heated and overreacting because of other drivers on the road can lead to unsafe driving. Don't let your emotional state get out of hand. Keep your cool at all times! Remember, you're in the bigger truck, so be the bigger man (or woman)!
10) Always keep 3 points of contact.
Slips and falls can happen, which is why when you're on your walking deck or trailer, it's recommended to always have 3 points of contact. This also applies when you're climbing onto something or off something. Also make sure to again be aware of the type of surface you're on, taking extra precautions on slippery, icy, or wet surfaces.
If you're curious about Fox Oilfield's specific commitment to safety, our previous blog HERE outlined it.