Steps to boost truck cab safety

Aside from being the control center of the vehicle, a truck cab serves as an office for paperwork and phone calls, a break area to rest and eat, a shelter from inclement weather and extreme temperatures, and a storage area for supplies and equipment. As wide-ranging as this multifunctional space is, even more so are the hazards that can be inside and around the cab, cautions KeepTruckingSafe.org.

The group offers these tips to help reduce the risk of truck cab-related injuries.

Falls

• Make sure grab handles and cab steps are securely mounted, clean, dry and usable.
• When climbing cab steps, maintain three points of contact while facing the vehicle, holding grab handles firmly, gaining stable footing and climbing all steps.

Strains or sprains

• Don’t jump from the cab to the ground.
• Install ergonomic seats, armrests, steering wheel, shifter knobs, cabinets and mattresses, if possible.

Chemical hazards

• Make sure the interior engine cover is securely fastened.
• Install a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm in your cab.
• Never use exhaust heaters, unenclosed flame heaters, or heaters permitting fuel leakage or air contamination.

Noise

• Tighten loose or broken cab components and accessories.
• Report excessive noises from vehicle systems.

Fire

• Equip the cab with a Class ABC fire extinguisher.
• Don’t use or store flammable products inside your cab.