Your Guide to Safe Haulage

There are many hazards associated with the work of loading, hauling and dumping material, whether in a pit or quarry on surface, or from a stope underground. Make sure you are thoroughly trained for the job. Keep the following points in mind:

General:

• Know the areas where you'll be loading and dumping. At the start of your shift, ask your supervisor if there have been any changes to the layout of your work area.  If the areas are not already familiar, do an inspection on foot. BUT, observe all barriers and do not approach an edge or open hole without fall restraint.
  
  • Make sure travel areas are level. Watch out for rocks or debris that could damage tires or throw your equipment or your load off balance.
  • Make sure dump area is well-lit and free from cracks near the edge, and soft or sunken areas
  • If there is no berm, bumper or barrier near the dump zone, contact your supervisor
  • Make sure the ground is supported according to company standards in both mucking and dump areas (underground)
  • Keep an eye on weather conditions, and be aware of how rain or freezing temperatures can affect the conditions of stockpiles, roadways and dump areas (surface)

Loading and mucking:

• Know and observe the capacity of your equipment - never overload your machine.
• Approach stockpiles and muckpiles at a 90 degree angle.
• Don't undercut a stockpile. Work with the pile's natural slope.
• Remain in the cab or seat while loading.
• Never work under unsupported ground.
• Know the steps you should take if your vehicle breaks down, or were to start on fire
• Follow company procedures for dust control
  

Dumping:

• Observe your company procedures for approaching the dump point and setting the brakes while dumping. Most procedures recommend that you approach slowly and come to a gradual stop at the dump point, shift into neutral and set the brakes while dumping.
• Keep a safe distance from the edge of a dump point or open hole. Stop short of the berm or bumper block - do not rely on it to stop your truck or loader.
• Keep a 90 degree angle to the edge of the hole or pile when dumping.
• When dumping into bins or hoppers, watch for overhead obstructions, chutes, gratings and guide rails.
  

For Inquiries Contact:

MASHA- 690 McKeown Ave.,
North Bay, ON P1B 9P1
ph. (705) 474-7233 x261
f. (705) 472-5800