Workplace transport inspection pack

• There is a better method of unloading a freight container that involvesa purpose built trailer with two cranes one on each end and attachingthe lifting chains to the bottom corner castings - see demo atContainerlift website.4. Use of unsuitable working platform on Fork truck(NEE is PN for unsuitable working platform in use see Notice 7 in section 6 andalso Falls topic pack.)5.Tail lifts – The relevant European Standard (BS EN 1756 -1) requires thattaillifts that lift over 2 m in height must be fitted with suitable handrails to preventfalls. There is also some guidance in Tail lift: Specification guide for roadvehicles via SOE.For other tail lifts, the risk of falls must be assessed and appropriate preventivemeasures taken. Many manufacturers have handrail options that can becustomised to the delivery requirements of the user. When fitted, edgeprotection has the additional benefit of preventing the load from falling off thetail lift during the lifting and lowering of the platform and injuring others in thevicinity. Bolt-on slip-resistant fibreglass sheets can sometimes be used toimprove the slip resistance of the lift, but be aware that the edges can create atrip hazard.6. Double decker trailers Some trailers have double decks and considerationof access to the second deck should be made.Responsibilties on siteThere is sometimes uncertainty regarding the legal duties of site and vehicleoperators (and vehicle manufacturers) regarding falls from vehicles. The followingparagraphs summarise HSE Services, Transportation & Safety Unit’s (STSU)understanding.For all parties, HSWA and MHSWR will obviously apply. HSE Solicitors advice onMHSW Reg 11, Co-operation and co-ordination where two employers share aworkplace, is that it will not apply when one company visits another for a short periodto perform one task such as delivery. Nevertheless co-operation and co-ordinationare both essential features of safe delivery operations. Reg 12 on workers fromoutside undertakings will apply, as well as the requirement for both employers tocarry out Reg 3 risk assessments. What should be clear is that it is unacceptableto pass risks off site eg drivers should not be made to correct insecure loads in alay-by or be sent off site to trim a load or manually sheet a lorry etc.Re the vehicle operator, PUWER will apply. See especially reg 4 re suitability ofequipment for the work – this means in effect that vehicle operators should ensurethat the vehicle is selected and equipped so that fall risks are adequately controlled.There should be management of off-site risks to employees.