Take a Load Off — Safely
Trucks with trailers are a common sight at PDRMA member agencies, hauling heavy equipment such as bleachers, soccer goals, picnic tables, garbage cans or even other vehicles. However routine the sight of a trailer might be, loading and unloading it is not a routine matter; it poses a unique set of challenges and risks.
“Safety awareness, following proper procedures, and training are all important when working with trailers,” says Tim Lenac, PDRMA Risk Management Consultant. “Not only is it important to perform the loading and unloading job task properly, but knowing how to get on and off the equipment using 3 points of contact keeps staff safe. Our PIPP resources address these specific job tasks showing best practices to prevent avoidable injuries.”
PDRMA’s Maintenance 3 Points of Contact and Training Guide — LRN #1453 and Recreation 3 Points of Contact Policy and Training Guide — LRN #1511 show the proper way to get on and off equipment, and our Trailering Job Task Training Guide — LRN #1560 provides instructions for safety practices when working with and around trailers.
Staff at Special Recreation Associations (SRAs) are subject to the same loading and unloading challenges but in respect to getting patrons into and out of vehicles. “SRA staff often must load patrons and their wheelchairs into vans or buses to transport them, and many of the same best practices apply,” Lenac adds.
Loading and Unloading SRA Transport Van Job Task Training Guide — LRN #1457 and SRA 3 Points of Contact Policy and Training Guide — LRN #1452 outline the procedures to safely load and unload patrons from vehicles, focusing on the specific SRA job tasks.
As spring approaches and your agency gears up for the 2014 season, be sure to review and/or train your staff on the best practices for loading and unloading trailers and SRA vans. Make it a safe season for employees and patrons.
PDRMA On-demand Video Resources
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