PACIF has developed Safety Briefs to help municipal highway supervisors maintain a high level of safety and hazard awareness among employees. We recommend using these short “tailgate trainings” on a regular basis – but no less once a month. If you need a particular safety topic, please contact us at losscontrol@vlct.org.
Information for Supervisors
Driver fatigue and equipment performance are two very critical elements that can impact the ease with which you handle a winter weather event. You want to make sure that your employees AND your equipment are able to perform at a high level and be able to tolerate the long hours that plowing and other winter road maintenance tasks demand.
To do that, some planning and maintenance is necessary for both the equipment and the driver. Reviewing the information below with your drivers should help remind them of the “little things” they need to do to prepare for a storm. You may also want to review the Safety brief called “Plowing and Driver Fatigue”.
Talking Points for Training
To prepare for a winter weather event, both the equipment and their operators must be in the best possible condition, in order to sustain the heavy workload that is expected. By keeping the two basic principles of “planning” and “maintenance” in mind before the storm arrives, you and your employees will have fewer “surprises” during the storm. Remember the following tips:
- As a driver, “plan” that you will not be home for extended periods of time. Make sure that some of the basic “home” necessities are taken care of. Taking care of the “home chores”, such as making sure there is enough wood or heating oil and that there are adequate groceries should be done prior to the storm. Gas up personal vehicles as well.
- Maintain yourself! Don’t forget to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated in advance of the storm.
- Make plans for child care if necessary during the event.
- Complete thorough checks of all equipment that will be used during the storm. Some key things to consider include:
- Make sure that windshield wipers are in good condition and replace those that are not. Make sure the wipers operate properly. Check washer fluid. Clean the inside of the windshield if needed to maximize visibility.
- Check all lights, strobes and signals to make sure they are fully operational. Checking them before the storm gives you a chance to get replacements and make the repairs before the storm hits.
- Check the tires and inflation, as well as the horn, back-up alarm and hydraulic system. Don’t forget to top off the fuel!
- Check the plow and wing blades for excessive wear and replace as needed.
- Check the safety chains (on the plow and wing) for weak spots, kinks and damage. Replace if needed.
- Make sure the back-up camera is working and clean if your vehicle is so equipped. Backing is a major cause of accidents!
A little preparation can go a long way. By minimizing fatigue and equipment breakdown, you can get the job done better and more safely