Safe unloading of sheet material

The purpose of this Safety Alert is to highlight the risk of serious crush injuries associated with the unloading of sheet material from A-Frames mounted on flat bed trailers.

Background

A 19 year old male worker sustained serious crush injuries while assisting with unloading two pallets of sheet glass at a workplace in Yarrawonga. The pallets, weighing approximately one tonne, were secured by a single set of restraints and transported vertically on an A-Frame mounted on a flat bed trailer. The worker was standing on top of the trailer and in front of the pallet when the restraints were released. The pallet fell as a co-worker jumped from the trailer after releasing the restraints.

Contributing factors

• The designated loading area was not used and the vehicle was parked on uneven ground when it was unloaded.
• A single set of restraints was used to secure both pallets.
• The co-worker jumping from the vehicle caused the trailer to move, which may have contributed to the pallet falling.
• The worker was standing in the fall path of the pallet.

Action required

• Each load of sheet material should be individually secured on the A-Frame.
• The loading and unloading of material should be done in the designated area.
• Never stand in front of sheet material when loading or unloading.
• Always use the available access points when climbing onto or off a trailer.

Further information

For further information please refer to the following:

Safety alerts

• Storing and handling glass – WorkCover NSW
• Working with sheet materials – WorkCover NSW
• Handling and storage of sheet glass

Codes of practice

• How to manage work health and safety risks