Incident Overview
Workers and pedestrians can be killed by dump trucks during loading, unloading, or street operations. These vehicles have large blind spots, sudden movement, and heavy weight, which increase the risk of a fatal collision or crushing incident.
Common Causes
Key factors include driver blind spots, unstable loads, sudden truck movement, and poor site communication. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, backing incidents and equipment contact are frequent causes of worker fatalities involving heavy trucks.
Prevention and Response
Employers can reduce risk by using spotters, cameras, traffic control plans, and clear signal systems. After a fatal incident, authorities typically investigate the scene, review operator training, and assess compliance with safety regulations.
