SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES

Dump Truck  Hazard Review Backing Tailgates Mounting/Dismounting Inclement Weather Unsecured Loads Load Shift All drivers shall be properly licensed.  Supervisors shall verify that drivers are capable and qualified on each type of equipment before allowing the equipment to be operated.  Drivers shall perform a pre-operational check of their equipment. Be familiar with operator's manual. Lockout and tagout any unsafe or damaged equipment and promptly report all needed repairs. Do not use any equipment that is unsafe.  Operators and passengers shall wear seat belts and or shoulder harnesses as provided.  Keep windshield, windshield wipers, side windows and mirrors clean.  When mounting or dismounting equipment, use steps and handholds provided. Do not jump from vehicle.  No personnel shall be allowed to ride anywhere, except in the cab, when the vehicle is in motion, unless the vehicle is designed to accommodate an individual outside the cab.  Plan ahead to minimize or eliminate the need for backing. Always check to the rear before backing and use an observer when available. Make sure back up alarms are properly working.  Choose safest location possible to park the equipment. Avoid parking in other the blind spots of others.  Wear appropriate personal protective equipment consistent with the hazard.  Be aware of fire extinguisher locations on your equipment and make sure they are properly charged.  Operators shall be aware of employees and others on foot in work areas.  Be aware of crushing and pinching hazards when installing, adjusting or removing tailgates. Get help or use machinery as necessary.  Make sure cargo is properly loaded, secured and covered. Check for loose material on bed rails and chassis.  Truck speed should be adjusted for load and weather. Tire chains should be utilized as dictated by weather conditions.  Be aware of, and avoid, overhead utility lines when dumping material. Avoid getting the dump near any overhead  power line. Always check for proper clearance distances between the lift path of the truck bed and tree limbs and power lines before dumping the load. Prior to operating the equipment off of the roadway, look for hidden objects in the grass and unstable terrain.  Never work under a raised bed without proper bracing in place. Use lockout tagout procedures. Make sure tailgate is unlatched prior to raising bed for dumping and avoid dumping on unlevel side hill terrain.  If vehicle is equipped with A.C. engine heater, first switch current off and then unplug heater before getting into vehicle.  All items in the cab areas of the vehicle shall be removed or secured in tool boxes. Because of extreme vehicle temperature, items such as aerosol cans or any items whose contents are under pressure should not be carried inside the cab area of the vehicle.  Related SOPs General SOPs -- Chapter 25 Trucks -- 27A Material Spreader-Tow Type -- 27B Tailgate Spreader -- 27B Trailers and Towed Equipment -- 27B

  27a