In December 2020, a worker suffered fatal injuries attempting to jump start a tractor. Early investigations indicate two men were working together and one of them drove a car into the machinery shed where the tractor was parked. The automatic vehicle was left in drive with the handbrake on. After applying jumper leads to the tractor, one of the workers opened the car door, and whilst standing next to the vehicle on the driver’s side, pushed the accelerator. At this time, it appears the car lurched forward and trapped the man.
Prevention:
Control measures will vary depending on the type of vehicle. Controls may include, but are not limited to:
Never use a vehicle to jump start another vehicle unless both vehicles are in park (automatic gearbox) or neutral (manual gearbox) with park brakes applied.
Consider using a mobile battery pack (i.e. secured to a hand trolley) to jump start vehicles.
Only operate a vehicle from the designated operator’s position (i.e. in the case of a car or truck, sitting in the driver’s seat).
If possible, operate the vehicle on flat level ground.
Do not drive or operate the vehicle on excessive slopes, or on ground that is too slippery or too soft to safely support it.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations to safely operate the vehicle, particularly in relation to;
maximum allowable ground slope
allowable ground conditions and restrictions for soft or slippery surfaces
specific setup requirements including vehicle restraints (i.e. wheel chocks) as specified for use with the vehicle.
Before starting the work, conduct a risk assessment of the site conditions where the vehicle is to travel or operate.
If the vehicle cannot safely access or operate in the proposed location, an alternate work method should be used.
Ensure the hand/park brake is on before exiting the vehicle.
Ensure the brakes, including the hand/park brake, are well maintained.
Install a warning system to alert drivers when the hand/park brake hasn’t been applied (these can be easily retro fitted).
Do not stand in the potential path of a vehicle when the engine is running.
