construction sites aggregate plants and other job sites all require special care for drivers
regardless of what truck a driver operates
there are some basic safety precautions that you need to take when
entering any job site
turn on your headlights
when you arrive at the site
this makes it easier for others to see your truck
drive slowly and use extreme caution
be on the alert for people walking, standing
or sitting near your truck path
you also need to watch out for
variety of hazards
including trenches, pipes, tools, machinery,
power lines on even ground
and pot holes but most importantly you need to
watch out for people walking around the site
some job sites or aggregate plants have very specific safety rules
that must be followed
make sure you're familiar with the safety rules
wherever you drive your truck
traffic signs and speed limits were established to control traffic and make
traveling through the site safe
slowdown and be patient
look out for people, objects and other hazards
one collision can cause you
all the time you have saved
and may cause someone's life
when you exit the cab, don't jump out even if you think the ground is soft
use the three points of contact method for a safe dismount everytime
when you do leave the cab, be sure to wear the personal protective equipment
hard hats are universality required
some locations also require that you wear safety glasses and reflective vests
when walking around the job site
look out for uneven ground, holes,
and any other trip hazards
and watch out for
moving eqipment
instructions for dumping come from the site foreman
in person, by radio, by hand gestures or by flaggers
before backing up, check your mirrors again to ensure that they are adjusted properly
so you have a clear view of what is behind
and beside your truck
make sure everyone around your truck is aware of your truck's movement
maintain eye contact with loaders and flaggers directing traffic
with all the noise and confusion
it is possible to miss something
be alert,communicate clearly and take your time
drivers may experience alot of waiting
and sitting in a truck for long periods of time
you can be exposed to excessive heat on hot days when your truck does not have
air conditioning or when you have to wait with the engine off
long exposure to hot temperatures can result in
heat exhaustion
some of the symptoms of heat exaustion or heat stress
are headaches
dizziness
light headedness
weakness
mood changes nausea
and pale and clammy skin
vomiting and fainting symptoms can also occur
and you should seek emergency medical assistance immediately
in hot weather to avoid heat exhaustion you need to keep hydrated like drnking
plenty of water and by taking short breaks
caffeine and some medications can deplete your body's essential
electrolytes and affect your ability to cool down
check with your physician if you have any questions about medications you may be taking
be sure to follow all of the safety rules
such as wearing your seatbelt and
personal protective equipment
always do your pre-trip inspections and keep on top of any equipment
problems
when driving, pay attention, never become complacent
always be aware of your
immediate surroundings
Practice job site safety at each and every site
in hot weather stay hydrated and look out for any sign of heat related illness
learned and use the three points of contact method for entering and exiting
your truck
and finally reporting accidents, near misses, injuries,
and unsafe conditions to your supervisor
never used drugs or alcohol when driving and if you're taking prescribed
medication
check with your doctor about possible side effects that may impair your
driving
remember a serious injury can cost you
your co-workers
and those you share the road with their lives
for everyone's sake, live up to your responsibility to act safely