Posted By Robert S Woods
We have a problem with the buckles of curtain siders when unloading them and I was wondering if anyone has come across this and any suggestions as to solutions?

Our site in Lincolnshire is on an old airfield and is therefore very exposed to the elements. This has caused some problems when opening curtains on wagons. The wind has on occasion caught the buckle straps, which have hit the employee who is opening the curtains.
Not life threatening as yet but we have had a few bruises.

All help gratefully received.

Bob

Posted By Mick154
Robert

This problem has been around from the first day transport moved from rope and sheeting to curtain sided vehicles

As an ex-driver with 30years experience and one who regularly put him self in the firing line to try and get Health and Safety issues in transport heard but to no avail

There has been a number of study’s done I was involved with the RHA and Commercial Motor Magazine back in the early 8otis

The out come was there is no formal training for drivers of these types of vehicles and to my knowledge I don’t think there is today

When the wind blows there is little can be done to control the curtain from flying around and if the driver is trying to open or close the curtain then the risk of facial injury is very high

Contact the United Road Transport Union

http://www.urtu.com/

They will help you on this one


Foot note:- you say “Not Life Threatening as Yet” I am sorry to inform you but there has been a number of reported, fatalities and very serious injuries through this activity during high winds. A colleague of mine lost part of his face when the hook got hold of him in his mouth and ripped through the side if his face taking all his left side out.