Driver Injury - Defective Roof Pole
What Happened:
After being loaded, the driver was closing his roof from the ground using his roof pole. The roof closed very easily without issue. The driver walked around to the rear of the trailer to pull the header bar into position. He placed the hook of the pole on the wire and one foot on the back of the trailer for leverage and pulled. The driver fell backwards suddenly. The driver was wearing his full PPE including his hard hat. As he fell his hard hat fell off and his head hit the ground, causing him to be knocked unconsciuos for a few seconds.
Findings:
- The correct safe working procedure was not followed.
- When pressure was applied to the roof pole hook, it snapped off.
- The roof pole had a defect which was not identified.
Recommendations:
Hauliers and drivers should:-
- Re-emphasize the importance of following the correct safe working procedure for opening and closing sliding roofs. P&O Ferrymasters Ltd safe working procedure is available from our website: http://www.poferrymasters.com/tatasteel/safe-working-practice-tat0021-opening-and-closing-a-sliding-roof.pdf
- Inspect and promote regular inspection of roof poles for damage and defects.
