Truck and Trailer Roll Away
What Happened:
Whilst collecting a loaded trailer from the trailer park, the driver realises the Trailer park Brake is still ON. Driver has jumped out of cab and not applied the unit Handbrake. On releasing the trailer park brake the truck and trailer have started to move. Driver has run back to his cab, around the front of the unit to apply the unit handbrake. There were no injuries.
Findings:
- The vehicle handbrake automatically applies when engine is switched off.
- Vehicle was fitted with audible alarm which operates if handbrake is off and door is opened.
- Driver has not acted on the audible alarm.
Recommendations: Drivers and Hauliers should:
- When purchasing new tractor units, it is recommended to specify a unique sounding and suitably loud handbrake alarm.
- Remind all drivers that when any audible alarm is sounding they must check the cause before exiting the cab.
- Breif drivers on the incident and importance of taking 2 minutes to review the situation before reacting and breaking their routine.
- On releasing the Trailer Park Brake "PAUSE" check for any unexpected movement, if movement is observed RE-APPLY the Trailer Park Brake.
