January 2022 Purposeful Observations
January’s Purposeful Observation Focus is a different topic than we have covered in the past. Hazardous Materials spills can subject our employees to some very dangerous conditions. We transport all types of chemicals, poisons, flammables, explosives, corrosives and gases. It is not uncommon that we have a spill on our dock or in a trailer. The vast majority of these spills are caused by improper handling, improper loading and/or improper securement
5 Keys to Prevent Hazmat Spills
Move and handle Hazmat carefully
Move slowly, and always know where the end of your forks are.
Protect the Hazmat
Use dunnage to protect the Hazmat. When loading other freight, use caution not to push it into Hazmat. Several spills have been caused by pushing freight into the Hazmat, or pushing the Hazmat into other freight.
Do not load any freight ton top of Hazmat
Crushed Hazmat packaging is a common cause of spills and leaks.
Secure Hazmat to prevent movement
Regulations state the the Hazmat must be secured so that it cannot move in any direction during normal transportation. This is a frequent cause of spills/leaks on the road.
Supervisors to inspect loads
Per Oak Harbor Freight Lines policies and procedures, Supervisors are required to inspect all Hazmat shipments to make sure they are loaded, secured, and protected properly before shipment.