Dump trucks are massive and invaluable tools when it comes to moving material to or from a worksite. But the very things that make them so useful, their size and power, also make them dangerous to the operator and those around the machine. We here at White’s International Trucks want to help ensure the safety of you and yours, so we’ve put together some safety tips for operating a dump truck below. If you have any questions, or you want to see the dump trucks we have for sale, contact one of our seven stores across North Carolina, today!
Drive Safely
This may sound obvious, but driving safely is the single most important aspect of safely operating a dump truck. These are dangerous, heavy vehicles, and even a slow impact can cause irreparable damage. Keep a very close eye on your surroundings and keep to speed limits when possible. In general, give pedestrians and other vehicles a wide berth, and if you need to reverse, make sure you have a guide.
Remember that a dump truck is much wider and taller than most vehicles on the road, so be mindful of tight spaces or overhangs. Low bridges, parking garages, and other such areas are best avoided entirely. Knowing your route beforehand can help you do that.
You should always have a generous follow distance on the road, since a dump truck takes a long time to brake—especially if the bed is full. Your turn radius will be similarly affected, and hitting bumps at speed with a full bed can wreck your shocks.
Loading And Dumping
Loading the bed safely starts with limiting how high you fill it. Avoid filling the upper portion if avoidable, since material and debris can easily bounce out as you rumble down the road. It also makes you more top-heavy, which can increase the risk of rolling. Once it’s full, make sure the load is secured—a tarp across the top can do wonders and is sometimes a legal requirement.
Safe dumping is more a matter of remaining aware of your surroundings. Make sure you have a spotter, and never dump while parked on a slope. Use hand signals or headsets to communicate with other workers nearby, and double- and triple-check that the dump area is clear before you start.
Good Maintenance
Last but not least, you rely on your dump truck’s systems to work properly in order to stay safe. Likewise, they rely on you to stay functional. Any maintenance issue, no matter how small, can potentially become a safety hazard, so get them checked out as soon as possible. Keep up with routine maintenance like fluid and filter checks and changes.
We hope these tips help you and those around you stay a little safer! For more information, or to see the dump trucks we have available, contact us at White’s International Trucks. We proudly serve the people of the great state of North Carolina—let us serve you today!
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