Worker struck by tailgate whilst unloading tipper truck (28 August 2024)

A 28-year-old worker sustained serious injuries while unloading a tipper truck when the vehicle’s load cascaded down from the front of the raised trailer. The tailgate opened without warning, striking the worker, pinning him against a wall while the load engulfed him. He sustained serious injuries.

A white truck parked near a grain storage farm. In the background, a shed with open doors is visible, filled with grain.
Truck and trailer post incident.

Safety information

Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with loading and unloading trucks.

Tailgates on tipper bodies may not be designed to bear loads during tipping. This means if the tailgate is closed while the tipper body is raised, there is a risk the tailgate will suddenly and unexpectedly open.

The movement of materials within a tipper body, either under transportation or operation of the tipper, may place excessive forces on the tailgate. The weight of tailgates may expose workers to possible crushing or shearing hazard.

Ensure:

  • workers have access to the manufacturer’s information to ensure the tipper truck is operated correctly
  • an exclusion zone is set up around the truck during loading/unloading processes to separate plant, cargo and machinery from people
  • never enter an exclusion zone, approach, or work close to, the rear tailgate while the tipper body is inclined. This includes when undertaking cleaning and maintenance work
  • the vehicle selected to transport loads is suitable for the task
  • fasteners and load restraint systems are used as intended to prevent loads from moving or falling
  • fasteners and load restraint systems are inspected before use and regularly maintained by a competent person
  • hazards in the work environment where the loading/unloading of materials will take place, are identified and if they cannot be eliminated, are managed in accordance with the hierarchy of control measures
  • workers have been provided with the necessary information, training and instruction so they are competent in the safe use of tipper truck
  • the tipper truck is regularly inspected and maintained by a competent person
  • a site induction is completed prior to unloading
  • an effective communication system is in place between the truck driver and other workers during the loading/unloading process for example, hand signals or two-way radios
  • workers do not place themselves between the load and the truck or other equipment
  • a work plan is developed in consultation with all workers involved in the task that details how the task is to be performed
  • a traffic management plan is in place and all workers attending the site are provided with this information
  • workers wear appropriate personal protective equipment for example, high-visibility clothing.

Related guidance material

Further information

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