Falling while getting into or out of truck cabs or heavy equipment or when mounting or dismounting truck bodies or trailers can cause serious injuries. Many knee, ankle and back injuries result from jumping from equipment onto uneven ground or objects. The biggest cause of slips and falls from a vehicle is human error and failure to follow the “Three Point Rule”.
The Three Point Rule requires three of four points of contact to be maintained with the vehicle at all times – two hands and one foot, or both feet and one hand. No matter what type of access system your vehicle or equipment has available, the three-point system will significantly reduce the chance of a slip or fall because it allows you to maintain maximum stability and support when entering and exiting the equipment. The three points work to form a triangle, evenly distributing your body’s weight at the center.
Here are some simple dos and don’ts to follow when entering or exiting a large vehicle or other equipment to avoid injury.
Do’s:
• Always exit and enter your vehicle facing the cab
• Descend slowly to avoid straining muscles and use extra caution in bad weather
• Get a firm grip on rails or handles with your hands
• Use parts designed by the manufacturer for mounting and dismounting; this includes steps, running
boards, traction strips, footholds, handgrips, etc.
• Look below for obstacles on the ground before exiting
• Wear safe non-slip shoes with good support
• Clean your shoes off; mud, grease and oil can cause you to slip
• Inspect hand holds and ladders/rungs to ensure they are in good condition
• Only climb on and off when the equipment is stationary
Don’ts:
• Never carry anything with your free hand when mounting or dismounting; put the object on the
vehicle floor and reach up for it when you get down on the ground
• Do not rush to climb out of your vehicle or machinery after a long period of sitting; climb down slowly
to avoid straining a muscle or losing your balance
• Never jump out of construction equipment or vehicles; you may land off balance or on an uneven
surface and fall
• Do not use tires, wheel hubs or machine tracks as a step surface
• Do not use door frames, door edges or door handles as a handhold