Dangerous Hydraulic Trailer Ramps
Heavy trailer ramps continue to cause serious injury, as demonstrated in a recent prosecution where a worker was performing duties in the “drop zone” of a low loader trailer when the 230kg ramps suddenly fell and struck him.
The worker suffered spine, pelvis, ankle, leg, and rib fractures and severe soft tissue injury. He died five months later.
This type of accident arises all too frequently in numerous industries, and appears to start with a lack of awareness of the risk eg heavy ramps can fall “like a rat trap” when the safety transport chains are released.
Once the ramp passes the balance point (vertical) they can fall with great force if the hydraulic system fails or is disconnected.
One such case involved a single-acting ram, where hydraulics raise the ramp, but rely on gravity to descend. If installed incorrectly air can remain in the hydraulic lines and compress allowing the ramp to fall down forcibly.
Trailer with single-acting hydraulic rams eg only one line per ram to raise ramp and gravity to descend
Trailer with (RH) ramp in lowered position and “drop zone” highlighted
How to Avoid Trailer Ramp Accidents?
The precautions will vary for different equipment and circumstances, but below are the key points:
Train all workers to recognise the “drop zone” for all trailer ramps.
Treat the “drop zone” as a hazardous zone and stay clear unless the safety chains are correctly installed.
Use 2-way hydraulic rams where practicable, instead of 1-way where ramps descend under gravity and can do so suddenly, especially if there is a leak or air in the lines.
Ensure all trailer ramp hydraulic lines are fitted with a flow control / burst valve to limit descent rate, including if lines rupture or leak.
For a summary copy of the recent court case email or call Safety Action on 03 8544 4300.
