Safety Equipment Is Vital For Tow Truck Drivers

Using safety equipment is critical in the removal of any incapacitated vehicle, whether as the result of an accident or a mere breakdown. Tow truck drivers are early responders to the scene of an accident, usually arriving after police and emergency medical workers. They and their trucks must be prepared to handle all challenges while following proper safety procedures.

Personal Safety Gear

Tow truck drivers are required by law to wear a reflective vest when working on a federal highway. Reflective vests are classified into three categories depending on their brightness levels, and drivers are encouraged to wear reflective helmets as well. Since they will be handling cables and wires, they also should wear safety gloves, along with sturdy, solid-toe work boots.

Truck and Cable Inspections

Before drivers begin their shifts, they should run through a checklist and inspect various parts of their trucks and cables. For instance, truck batteries should be checked to ensure they are at a full charge. Cables should be examined for excessive wear and replaced if need be. All headlights and emergency lights should be fully functioning as well, along with the winch system.

Specific Equipment Knowledge

Drivers should also fully understand their truck’s capabilities. Each towing vehicle has a specific gross vehicle weight rating that must be adhered to in order to ensure safe transport of the towed vehicle. Light-duty trucks carry up to 10,000 pounds, medium-duty trucks can haul up to 26,000 pounds and heavy-duty haulers can exceed 26,000 pounds.

Knowledge of Proper Loading Procedures

When the driver arrives on the scene, their first step is to set up a safe perimeter around the loading zone using reflective cones or flares. They should always use handles and running boards when entering and exiting their truck to reduce the risk of injury. The driver should have all emergency lights flashing to alert passing motorists as soon as they pull up beside the disabled vehicle.

When loading the disabled vehicle, the driver should make sure it is centered on the truck bed. They should follow all safety procedures involved with operating the winch, then stabilize the wheels and tie down the car with the required chains to prevent movement during transport.

Tow truck drivers have a significant level of responsibility — they are in charge of making sure stranded motorists and their vehicles reach their desired destinations safely. They also must protect themselves from oncoming traffic while operating heavy machinery. Tow truck drivers depend on personal gear as well as heavy-duty, industry-recommended equipment to complete their job correctly.
Call Stauffer’s Towing for tow service from a trained, prepared staff that understands and prioritizes the proper use of safety equipment on the job.