S a f e t y T o o l b o x T o p i c s

Falling while getting into or out of heavy equipment, a truck or tractor cab, hooking up air and electrical lines, or mounting or dismounting trailers is a sure way to get seriously hurt. An insurance industry study showed that falls from vehicles produced injuries that were almost 25% worse than other types of injuries.

Even an ankle sprain can play havoc with your ability to use the clutch. Minor injuries can cost you big in terms of lost income and downtime. The biggest single cause of falls from a vehicle is driver error and failure to follow the THREE-POINT rule.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO AVOID FALLS?

No matter what type of access system your vehicle has available, use the THREE-POINT system to significantly reduce the chance of a slip or fall. The THREE-POINT system means three of your four limbs are in contact with the vehicle at all times—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.

The THREE-POINT system allows a person to have maximum stability and support, thereby reducing the likelihood of slipping and falling. Be a winner; use the THREE-POINT system.

DO’S:

• Wear shoes with good support -- not sandals, bare feet or high heels.
• Exit and enter facing the cab.
• Slow down and use extra caution in bad weather.
• Get a firm grip on rails or handles with your hands.
• Look for obstacles on the ground below before exiting.

DON’Ts:

• Don’t climb down with something in your free hand. Put it on the vehicle floor and reach up for it when you get down on the ground.
• Don’t rush to climb out after a long run. Descend slowly, to avoid straining a muscle.
• Don’t ever jump out. You may land off balance or on an uneven surface, and fall.
• Don’t use tires or wheel hubs as a step surface.
• Don’t use the door frame or door edge as a handhold.
• Don’t become an injury statistic.

The professional driver or operator knows all the do’s and don’ts of getting in and out of vehicles and practices the Three Point Rule every day.

The only person who can prevent a fall is you!