Personnel Safety: Keeping Drivers Safe on Hauls
When most people think of trailer safety, they think about protecting the load. However, for the pros who work with enclosed trailers daily, driver safety means just as much, if not more than, preventing damage to cargo. How you pack your load directly impacts your well-being and safety.
We outlined some tips on how to keep yourself or your crew safe on the job.
Pack For Personnel Safety
Your load setup determines the safety of every open, unload, and step inside your trailer. It's tempting to pack quickly and move on, but a little planning can go a long way to prevent big injuries later.
Ensure EVERYTHING is Secured: Use E-track or other tie-down systems to anchor your load properly. Anything loose can and will become a projectile with a sudden stop or sharp turn.
Balance the Load: Uneven weight can make opening your trailer dangerous and make the trailer unstable on the road.
Pro Tip: Always place heavier items toward the floor and front of the trailer. This helps with driving stability and toppling.
Use Cargo Nets to Prevent Falling Hazards
One of the most overlooked and dangerous moments is opening the trailer door. If cargo has shifted, it can spill out instantly and potentially injure the person opening the door.
Installing a cargo net across the rear opening of the trailer is a simple and smart practice to prevent personnel injury.
That cargo net prevents boxes or tools from falling out onto you and creates a safe barrier to assess any shifting before unloading. Plus, it can easily clip into E-Track near the door. Think of it as a safety gate that will keep the unexpected in check.
Always Inspect Before You Enter
Before stepping inside your trailer, check for movement to spot shifting, open the door slowly to detect if cargo is leaning against it, and listen for any signs of movement.
Keep Your Trailer Organized and Trip-Hazard-Free
Once inside the trailer, tripping hazards can become an issue. Even an unloaded trailer can have tripping hazards that could cause you injury.
Add E-track storage bags, bins, or hangers to keep loose straps and cords off the floor and reduce tripping hazards.
Plan your Unload Sequence
A safe trailer isn't just packed well - it's unpacked ergonomically.
Use dollies or hand trucks properly for heavy or awkward gear. This will help you avoid injury and strain when lifting bulky items.
You should also avoid overreaching or lifting heavy objects above shoulder height. Use ramps or step stools to reduce lifting strain and protect your body.
Your Safety is Non-Negotiable.
Every job comes with its risks. But those risks can be reduced with the right preparation, equipment, and healthy habits. From cargo nets that catch the unexpected to smart load planning that protects your back (literally and figuratively), personnel safety starts with intention and ends with peace of mind.
Looking to gear up for safer hauls? US Cargo Control carries everything you need to keep both your cargo and your crew safe. Our trucking experts are here to help with any questions you may have. Call them at 866-444-9990 or email them at customerservice@uscargocontrol.com. Custom options are always available!
