TOPIC 4 - WINNER
DESCRIPTION
In the last 5 years, there have been 35 fatalities related to Falling from Height in UK industry. Of the 35 fatalities, 18 involved falling from a vehicle.
Wainwright’s asphalt contracting division use a JCB 3CX Compact (back-hoe) on most sites, as it is a versatile and effective machine for most site operations. With a range of attachments, it can handle materials, dig, trench, and clean up. It is good for general purpose site preparation and maintenance and significantly reduces manual handling by operatives.
The back-hoe loaders are regularly moved from site to site using an HGV low-loader. The machines need to be chained down to secure them whilst being moved by the low loader to a new site or being returned to base.
The 4 tie-down points provided by the manufacturer are located on the corners of the JCB 3CX at waist height, when it is parked at ground level. When driven onto the bed of the low-loader, these points are at head height or higher. The driver is unable to secure the chains to the tie down points whilst standing on the ground and must climb onto the flatbed to secure the chains putting themselves in awkward positions to secure the chains. This operation exposes the operators to the potential of a fall from height.
Watch the video and view the entry in the 'Sharing good practice guide' to find out nmore about the solution to this problem.
BENEFITS
- Eradication of working from height for the tie-down process.
- The driver is now able to complete the task from ground level.
- The driver remains cleaner and drier as no longer required to kneel or lie on ground.
- Chains for the securing process are also stored at ground level improving access.
- Reduction of time spent on the tie-down process with less rushing.
- Driver can spend more time concentrating on other aspects of the task.
- Reduced exposure time for HGV driver to high-risk live traffic working.
- Stress and fatigue on driver reduced.
- Driver more likely to correctly tie-down the vehicle.
- Tie-down from a lower centre of gravity, increasing stability in transit of machinery.
- Increased safety to the public when transporting heavy plant on public highways.
- Positive feedback from the drivers.
- Demonstrates Wainwrights’ collaborative approach to safety and Vision Zero values.