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Safety Watch

September 03, 2010 |

Tricky transport

Hauling equipment safely means more than just load-and-go.

The accident: A tractor-trailer hauling construction machines rear-ended a pickup truck with two men inside. The tractor-trailer ended up on top of the pickup before going off the road. Both of the pickup truck’s occupants were ejected. The driver received only minor injuries; however, the passenger was killed.

The bottom line: Hauling construction equipment adds weight, reduces handling ability and increases momentum on inclines. The tractor-trailer’s driver did not allow for adequate stopping distance between his truck and the vehicle traveling in front of him.

Tie it down well. Safe machine transport is as important as safe machine operation, and keeping the machine in place is the first step. According to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, most manufacturers provide tie-down and lifting points, but assume no liability for product transport. Some manufacturers also provide recommended loading procedures, but it’s critical to remember that all machines are not loaded in the same way. As a general rule of thumb, keep the following guidelines in mind: