Incident alert
LOCATION:
READYMIX OR MORTAR PLANT
ACTIVITY:
TRANSPORT / DELIVERY
SUB ACTIVITY:
MOBILE PLANT
TITLE
Collapsing step causes driver to injure back
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
United Kingdom
ACCIDENT / INCIDENT DETAILS
A company driver operating a Minimix truck (MAN 4 x 2 Hymix 18000Kgs Gross Plated Weight) fell to the ground, jarring his back, when the bottom access step broke away from the vehicle as he was climbing into the cab. The incident resulted in the driver being off work for 1 day, however potentially his injuries could have been far worse.
The investigation found that the fixing arrangement for the step on the truck, which was less than 12 months old, had failed; the clamps holding the rubber bush for the step fractured, allowing the whole assembly to fall away from the vehicle. There was no obvious sign of previous impact damage to the step.
ACCIDENT / INCIDENT IMAGES
Click image to enlarge
Example of the complete step assembly
Click image to enlarge
Failed component that contributed to the incident
LEARNING POINTS / ACTIONS TAKEN
Whilst investigation into the incident is ongoing and discussions are taking place with the manufacturers, the following should be in place to minimise the potential for such incidents:
- Steps on similar vehicles should be inspected for evidence of potential failure.
- Rigorous inspection and maintenance schemes should be operated to identify potential problems before they cause damage or injury and ensure compliance with the law.
- Whilst there was no evidence of damage in this case, clamp arrangements such as this can be weakened if the components are straightened up after an impact. All accident damage should be reported promptly. Defect Reporting and Near Miss/Hazard Alert systems should be used to highlight any damage/faults. Do not use damaged equipment where it poses a risk to health and safety, always ensure items are taken out of service and undergo proper repair.
- When climbing in or out of vehicles always remember to maintain 3 points of contact. Always exit lorry cabs backwards facing the cab, and do not be tempted to jump to the ground!
LEARNING POINTS / ACTIONS IMAGES
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