Emergencies - 10

Question 1

Learn about…

Answer 1

Avoiding truck fires, procedures for addressing truck fires, steps to take when a spill occurs, the precautions that should take place when an overhead wire is downed

Question 2

Rule 10.0

Emergency SItuations

Answer 2

Drivers and helpers must know emergency response procedures

Question 3

Rule 10.1

Truck Fires

Answer 3

A driver must contact dispatch immediately in any of the following situations: Fire, Smoke, smell of smoke
Drivers and helpers must stay alert and watch for signs of a potential fire on the route, such as:
-Smoke
-Hot spots in the truck body
-Blistering paint
-Other signs of a fire

Question 4

Engine Fire:

Answer 4

Always do the following steps if a fire is in the engine, cab, or hydraulic reservoir area:

1. Immediately stop the truck in a safe area (on the side of the road, open area, etc)
2. Shut off the truck, which should eliminate the hydraulic pressure
3. Get out of the truck
4. Do not open the hood
   - May cause the fire to flare up
5. If it is safe to do so, engage battery disconnect
6. If trained in proper use of a fire extinguisher, attempt to put out the fire.

Question 5

Body/Box Fire:

Answer 5

Always do the following if a fire is located in the body/box:

1. Pack the load as tightly as possible to force air out of the load
2. Immediately locate a safe place where the hot load can be discharged, preferably not in the roadway.
   - Select a location where the hot load will not create an additional hazard (ex. do not park next to a building or in a high-traffic area)
3. Discharge the load and move the truck to a safe area.
4. Control the fire with fire extinguishers or water hoses if available and properly trained to use them

Question 6

Rule 10.2

Fire Extinguisher Use

Answer 6

It is important that an employee does not use a fire extinguisher unless they have been properly trained. Ensure that Drivers and helpers understand how they can obtain proper training in this area

Question 7

Rule 10.3

Spill Control

Answer 7

A driver/helper must always do the following steps in the even of a spill:

• Immediately contact dispatch providing the spill location, material, and amount of the spill
• Engage battery disconnect and close main hydraulic valve
• Wearing the appropriate PPE, contain and control the spill, if safe to do so

Question 8

Rule 10.4

Overhead Lines

Answer 8

If an overhead line is knocked down and it comes into contact with a truck, dispatch must be notified immediately with the location of the incident. No one is allowed to get out of the truck. If someone tries to climb out, they may become part of the electrical current and be electrocuted. The Driver/helper must stay in the truck until cleared to get out by the police, fire or EMS authorities.