Hazardous materials transportation training is essential to keep everyone on the road safe. These courses provide specific training that prepares drivers to handle hazardous materials. Of course, even with the best training, there are still risks that transportation workers face regularly. According to the Department of Transportation, 40% of fatalities that happen in the workplace are due to transportation incidents. Here are four of the most serious risks transportation workers should be aware of.
1. Driver Fatigue
Driver fatigue is one of the most common risks that a transportation worker faces. Fatigue while driving has been studied and found to be as dangerous as drinking and driving. Reaction times are slowed, decision-making is impaired, and control can be difficult to maintain. It’s critical that transportation workers always get plenty of rest before driving to prevent problems from occurring.
2. Environmental and Road Condition Changes
Another risk factor that transportation workers face is changes in driving conditions. The environment and the road can change quickly. For example, the weather can take a sudden turn for the worse, or there could be obstacles in the middle of the road. Transportation workers unaware of the changes up ahead may find themselves in a precarious situation they are unprepared for.
3. Failing to Use Three Points of Contact On Entry and Exit of the Vehicle
Slip and fall accidents are unfortunately very common among transportation workers. During the winter months, ice, snow, and slushy conditions can prove to be highly hazardous. Failure to properly enter and exit the vehicle using a three-point-of-contact method can prove to be a high-risk factor for injury.
4. Other Motorists
By far the highest risk factor that a transportation worker faces is other motorists. Distracted driving, improper equipment on other vehicles, and user error are all potential dangers presented by other drivers on the road. Transportation workers must navigate their driving while paying attention to every driver around them.
Hazardous materials transportation training teaches transportation workers to mitigate the many risk factors they will encounter on the job. This essential training helps to keep all drivers on the road safer. Contact ETC Compliance Solutions today to learn more about how our training courses can help your team avoid the dangers above.
