After returning from delivering the last load of slipform from a customer’s site, where drivers are only allowed to dry brush their truckmixer chutes, the driver “stone washed” the drum.  He noticed there was concrete build up on the “pig's ear”.  The driver parked his truck, isolated the vehicle and applied the wheel chocks, before climbing on the rear chute to remove the build-up.

Please see below image taken by another driver who stepped in

KEY FINDINGS

• Look after yourself and others -  Stop and think behaviour not used.
• Safe systems of work - Driver induction training had been completed.  Production had finished on the plant.  No permit to work was issued.  The activity is not included in the Independent Haulage Contractor (IHC) permitted vehicle maintenance activities.
• Working at height - Inappropriate access used for working at height.
• Safety alert - Recent HiPo Safety Alert involving similar vehicle Working at Height not effectively communicated
• Take 5 / Risk perception - At no point was a TAKE 5 pre task risk assessment completed

HOW COULD THIS HAVE BEEN AVOIDED

• Use of TAKE 5 / STOP & THINK approach.
• Compliance with site procedures, including obtaining a Permit to Work from a company representative and the requirement for supervision.
• Follow ERIC P hierarchy and risk assessment principles to identify the safest method of work.
• By completing the task another way, using mobile safety steps, scaffold tower or Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP).
• Ensuring relevant Safety Alerts are effectively communicated and understood.

KEY REVIEW POINTS

• Are all IHC’s aware of permitted activities, including not carrying out maintenance on site without a Permit to Work?
• When working at height, is there a risk assessment, method statement, Permit to Work and the correct equipment incorporating adequate fall protection?
• Are all the relevant rules and procedures understood?
• Do we encourage and thank people for taking the time to  STEP IN / Take 5 Together when unsafe activities or behaviours are observed?
• Are Safety Alerts effectively communicated to all relevant parties?