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august 2011
In This Issue:

Top Tactics for Entering and Exiting Tractors and Trailers


First Aid: The Key to a Safe Workplace


The Value of a Picture


Back to the Basics: Safe Right Turns


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Top Tactics for Entering and Exiting Tractors and Trailers

All slips and falls are preventable. However, many injuries result from these incidents. According to the American Trucking Associations, 20 percent of falls occur when drivers enter and exit their tractors, trailers and straight trucks. These slips and falls typically result in injuries to drivers’ ankles, knees, backs and heads. By requiring drivers to use the three-point system of contact every time they enter or exit the truck cab or cargo area, the frequency of these losses can be greatly reduced.

Using three points of contact helps maintain stability while getting on or off trucks or equipment. The three-point system requires the individual entering or exiting the tractor or trailer to maintain contact with one hand and two feet or two hands and one foot. By following this practice, a stabilizing triangle is created that helps minimize falls.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) ensure that the three-point system is always possible in Section 399.207 Truck and truck-tractor access requirements. The general rule states:

Any person entering or exiting the cab or accessing the rear portion of a high profile COE truck or truck-tractor shall be afforded sufficient steps and handholds, and/or deck plates to allow the user to have at least three limbs in contact with the truck or truck-tractor at any time. This rule applies to intermediate positions as well as transition between intermediate positions. To allow for changes in climbing sequence, the step design shall include, as a minimum, one intermediate step of sufficient size to accommodate two feet.

The regulation also specifies the dimensions, location and strength required for steps, foot accommodations, handholds and deck plates. The importance of these components is further emphasized in Section 399.211 Maintenance which requires steps, handholds and deck plates to be maintained adequately enough to serve their intended function.

In addition to using the three-point system, drivers must always look before they step into or out of the tractor or trailer. They should observe whether ice, mud, grease or any other slipping hazards are present on the steps or the ground where they will place their feet.

Pass these other important tips onto your drivers to help reduce slips and falls as they enter and exit their tractors and trailers:

  • Never attempt to jump from a cab, trailer or loading platform.
  • Do not jump from one surface to another.
  • Hands should be free at all times. Do not carry any items.
  • Exit facing the cab or equipment. Facing away from the cab could cause shoe heels to catch on footholds.
  • Properly use steps, running boards, traction strips, footholds, handgrips and any other component designed for mounting or dismounting.
  • Do not use wheel hubs, machine tracks or door handles, which do not provide the strength or stability necessary for support.

To remind drivers to always use the three-point system of contact, Baldwin & Lyons is offering free copies of our Prevent These Hazards sticker. Contact the Loss Prevention Resource Library at 317-636-9800 or email thequill@baldwinandlyons.com to place your order.

Please refer to the Resource Library for video training programs that can help prevent slips and falls when drivers enter or exit their vehicles.

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Baldwin & Lyons, Inc.
1099 North Meridian Street, Suite 700 | Indianapolis, IN 46204
(800) 644-5501 | Fax: (317) 632-9444
www.baldwinandlyons.com