
             "Teamwork" Helps to Prevent Tractor Lift Injuries
Picture courtesy of the National Maritime Safety Association Technical Committee
Picture courtesy of the National Maritime Safety Association Technical Committee
During the offloading of containers from semi-tractors by shore-side gantry cranes, semi-tractor drivers have the potential to be exposed to "jostling".   Such incidents occur when containers are lifted while they are still connected (either fully or partially connected by way of the locking mechanism) to the semi-tractor's chassis, causing the tractor to be lifted along with the container.   Sometimes while the container is being lifted, the locking mechanism on the chassis will disengage in midair, causing the chassis to fall to the ground, thus resulting in the semi-tractor operator being thrown about or "jostled" in the cab.  There have been incidents when semi-tractor operators have been lifted in their cab as much as 30 feet into the air.   "Teamwork" by all those involved is essential to help reduce semi-tractor lifting incidents and the injuries associated with jostling.  Below are recommended steps that should be followed to help prevent injuries suffered by semi-tractor drivers.
Methods to Prevent Lifting Incidents
Employers and their representatives (such as foremen, ship bosses, etc.) should ensure that workers are trained and use the following prevention methods before (such as gangway/pre-shift safety talks) and during the offloading of semi-tractors:
 Establish and maintain clear communication between the signalman and crane operator throughout the lift. 
 Effectively communicate all changes from chassis to bomb-cart operations to and between signalmen and crane operators.
 Ensure pinmen check that locking pins and "dogs" are fully disengaged or unlocked before the container is lifted.
                 Picture courtesy of Eagle Marine Services, Ltd
                Picture courtesy of Eagle Marine Services, Ltd
Ensure the signalmen and semi-tractor drivers understand the importance of the chassis being properly aligned under the hook, and that semi-tractor drivers pay particular attention to signals to ensure proper alignment.  Ensure crane operators lift slowly and "float the load" and use their line of vision, signals and/or directions from workers on the ground to guide their lifts prior to hoisting. 
 Ensure signalmen always check that the container and chassis are separated before giving the "all-clear" signal.
 Stress that all "lifting" incidents should be reported to the employer.
 Any semi-tractor operator who has experienced "jostling" should be checked for injuries.
 Red Tag and remove from service any chassis involved in a lifting incident.
Remember:
Teamwork and following established safety protocols are important in helping to reduce or prevent semi-tractor lifting incidents and serious injuries.



