Driver Injured by Curtain Tensioning Strap
What Happened:
During loading process, the IP was moving his curtain towrads the rear of the trailers when a curtain tensioning strap buckle came away from the curtain as it's pop rivet gave way. This caused the tensioning strap to strike the IP in the face and leave cuts to the lip and nose which required treatment at the local hospital.
Findings:
- The correct safe working procedure was followed and full PPE was worn.
- This type of trailer used a pop rivet to attach the tensioning strap to the curtain; there are several different types of fixings used on tailers therefore cause of incident cannot be attributed to this particular type of fixing.
Recommendations:
- Always pull curtains open or closed with both hands and never pull on just one strap.
- Always inspect fixings, regardless of type, prior to use for any signs of wear and tear.
- Report any defects as soon as possible!
- Never use unsafe equipment!
- Safety Glasses Must be worn for All trailer operations, where the customer has specified the requirement
