Summary Statement

A toolbox talk on preventing struck-by incidents caused by not securing loads properly. Includes questions to ask, an incident to discuss with images, and a place to record questions the trainer would like to ask about the incident. Part of a collection. Click on the 'collection' button to access the other items.

How do we safely work around and secure loads?

Ask the following questions and give time for answers.

  • What are the hazards? Loads releasing onto workers from trucks or storage areas, materials dropped on workers while loading trucks or unstrapping loads
  • What are the results? Crushed or broken limbs, head injuries, amputations, death
  • What should we look for? Poorly stacked building materials, lopsided loads on trucks, loads not properly tied down, materials being lofted by cranes near work areas.

Relate this incident or, better, one you know.

Actual Incident: A 45-year-old crane operator died while rigging a load. A tractor-trailer driver unstrapped the load to ready it for lifting. The operator climbed onto the load during rigging and it rolled off the trailer and crushed him. The tractor-trailer driver was not at a meeting earlier that day where drivers were told that their loads had to be kept strapped.

Ask the following question and ensure every item is covered.

How do we prevent these results?

  • Keep workers who are not involved in loading or unloading clear of loading areas.
  • Load materials for maximum stability. Distribute weight evenly and keep materials level.
  • Secure loads following safe and appropriate industry practices.
  • Consider having a competent person inspect incoming freight to identify those that pose serious hazards during unloading.
  • Nail 2x4 boards to the floor of cargo areas to secure equipment with wheels.
  • Make sure cargo does not restrict driver's vision, free motion, exit from the vehicle, or access to emergency supplies.
  • Stack and store materials with no more than a 4:1 height to base ratio and keep materials back from the edge.
  • Perform rigging only if you are qualified. Choose the right equipment and inspect it prior to each use. Take defective rigging equipment out of service!

Ask the following questions and solicit their own stories.

Let’s talk about this site now.

  • Has anyone seen any practices on this site that may have posed a risk from a load?
  • Does anyone know the safety factor needed for chains used to lift loads? (4:1)
  • Are the materials on this site stored properly? What can we improve?
  • Have the loads coming on our site been properly secured?

Record questions below that you want to ask about this site.