A driver at Brett Aggregates had reported an injury whilst completing the Suzie connections between an artic trailer and the cab. In consultation with other drivers during the investigation of this incident, it became apparent that this was an issue that could be repeated. There were two main areas of concern.
A team was formed to find an engineering solution to reduce, as far as practically possible, the potential for an injury whilst making the Suzie connections. In consultation with a fabricator, a new bracket was designed and trialled successfully. This enables the drivers to adopt a much improved steady and stable stance to exert the required force to overcome the 12-bar back pressure. Bending and twisting is no longer required to make the connections.
See additional pdf for more information