Hazard Alert
Worker's Compensation Board
POSTER # Hazard Alert 93-07
Use qualified workers —
Worker Crushed by Powered Tailgate
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A tire serviceman suffered serious crushing injuries while attempting to repair a malfunctioning powered tailgate on a one-ton truck. The tailgate was in the "down" position. The serviceman was using a light probe to check the wiring under the truck deck and he accidentally activated the solenoid, causing the tailgate to rise. His upper body was crushed between the underside of the truck deck and the tailgate. This untrained, unqualified worker had no expertise or qualifications to trouble-shoot the energized wiring system.

SAFE WORK PRACTICE
  1. Fail-safe tailgate levers and other equipment must be installed properly and safely according to manufacturers' instructions.

  2. Provide written safe work procedures and ensure that workers receive adequate direction and instruction in the safe performance of their duties.

  3. Machinery and equipment must be operated only by authorized persons who have been adequately instructed and trained and who have demonstrated the ability to operate the machinery or equipment safely.
This poster is part of an archival collection of WCB health and safety posters, dating from 1969 until the present time. At the time this poster was originally produced, it reflected the current WCB requirements. In all cases, today's WCB regulation and requirements must be applied to the situation shown in each poster.