Trucking Safety Best Practices: What to Do When You Arrive

G.O.A.L. — Get Out And Look.
When backing into a parking space or positioning at a dock, don’t hesitate to get out and check your surroundings as often as necessary. Taking extra time to ensure proper alignment is far better than risking a preventable accident. If previous tire tracks are visible, use them as a guide to help position your truck accurately.

Examine the area before parking or unloading.
After stopping, step out and assess the location where you plan to park, unload, or connect to a trailer. Look for obstacles, uneven surfaces, debris, or other hazards that could create safety issues. A quick inspection can prevent costly damage or injury.

Handle landing gear safely.
When raising or lowering trailer landing gear, take precautions to avoid strain or injury:

• Wear gloves at all times.
• Maintain solid footing and be mindful of slick or uneven ground.
• Use your free hand against the trailer for balance.
• Keep a firm grip on the handle and avoid spinning it.
• Stay clear of the handle’s path to prevent facial injuries.

Unload cargo carefully.
If your job includes unloading freight, approach the task thoughtfully. Before opening trailer doors, assume cargo may have shifted and could be pressing against them.

• Carefully release the lock bars on the right-hand door while positioning your body beside the left door.
• Open the door slowly and check for freight leaning against it.
• Once clear, use both hands to control the door and prevent wind from catching it.
• Secure the door properly with the tie-back chain or cable.

Complete a post-trip inspection.
Always conduct a detailed inspection after finishing your route. Identifying issues like tire damage, fluid leaks, or malfunctioning lights early prevents delays and safety risks later. Record and report any concerns promptly so they can be addressed before your next trip.