Reviewing real incidents can help determine if your work unit needs refresher training or improved procedures. The following examples are part one in illustrating common hazards and the importance of following safe work practices.

LADDER LACERATIONS

An employee was preparing a “Watch for Ice on Bridge” sign for the winter season. While using an extension ladder propped against the sign, the ladder began to slip. The employee instinctively grabbed the edges of the sheet metal sign with bare hands, resulting in severe cuts that extended down to the muscle and cartilage.

Lesson: Always ensure ladders are stable and properly secured before climbing. Wear appropriate gloves when handling sharp objects, and follow safe ladder practices to prevent slips and cuts.

SNOW PLOW SLIP-UP

Every winter, injuries occur when workers carry snow plow blades from the stockroom to trucks for replacement. In several incidents, employees tripped and fell in the garage, dropped blades onto their feet, or suffered shoulder and groin strains while lifting, installing, or stacking the blades.

Lesson Learned: Proper lifting techniques, team lifts for heavy blades, and clear walkways are essential. Planning movements in advance and using mechanical aids whenever possible can prevent strains, falls, and dropped-object injuries.

CAUGHT IN THE CRUSH

An employee was changing a standard dump truck tailgate to a spreader gate when his fingers were caught between the gate and the truck bed. In some instances, fingers became twisted in chains due to miscommunication with a helper. The employee also experienced shoulder and upper-arm strains when the cat hole was not properly lubricated, making the gate difficult to open and close.

Lesson Learned: Clear communication and proper lubrication of moving parts are essential. Awareness of pinch points and the use of appropriate gloves can prevent serious hand injuries.

INCIDENT INJURIES 

Several incidents have occurred while employees were climbing off dump trucks or heavy equipment. One employee slipped off a step and fell backward, striking his head. Another caught himself by a handhold but strained his shoulder. Other incidents involved employees catching wedding rings on equipment, resulting in skin degloving, and slips while washing a truck from the dump bed, rear duals, or a rolling ladder.

Lesson Learned: Always use three points of contact, keep steps and handholds clean, and remove jewelry. Proper awareness when mounting or dismounting equipment reduces the risk of falls and injuries.

UNPREDICTABLE TROUBLE 

During tree and brush trimming, unpredictable incidents caused injuries. One employee was struck on the head by a falling tree; the hard hat minimized the injury. Other incidents occurred when clearing storm-damaged areas with hidden utility wires. When cuts were made, tension in the wires or limbs suddenly released, striking employees.

Lesson Learned: Proper PPE, including hard hats, is critical. Assess the work area for hidden hazards and maintain awareness of unpredictable movements when cutting or trimming trees and brush.