21
DHOLLANDIA
7.5
ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR LOADING CARGO
WARNING
Drivers and operators involved in loading or unloading cargo MUST USE COMMON SENSE AND GOOD JUDGEMENT to
use the ramp safely.
Failure to do so and disregard of the safety instructions may result in serious bodily injury or death, as well as property
damage.
The best method to load or unload the vehicle depends on a variety of factors such as the technical characteristics of the
cargo to be handled (availability of brakes, self-powered or to be moved manually etc.), and the weather conditions (dry or
wet and slippery).
If applicable, clients or supervisors should instruct the drivers and operators on any special needs and / or procedures required
for the safe transport of the cargo, to guarantee maximum safety while loading or unloading the vehicle.
For repetitive transports, it is recommended that safe work procedures be issued by the H&S management or supervisor, and
ramp boarding and exciting procedures be practiced by the drivers or operators.
Safety straps and load restraints should be positioned and buckled up before accessing the ramp.
A fall of the driver or operator off the platform may cause serious bodily injury or death.
ALWAYS beware of the ramp slope. The slope will directly affect the ability powered machines to climb up the ramp or come
down the ramp safely; and the ability of the driver / operator to manually push or pull cargo (without self-propulsion) up or
down the ramp.
The slope also has a direct effect on the center of gravity of the cargo. Consider the initial center of gravity of the load when
positioned on flat ground, and the risk that the load might tumble over during loading or unloading.
To prevent slipping and falling, ALWAYS make sure your footing
on the platform is solid.
Use extreme care in wet or slippery conditions. Machine brakes
are less effective if the platform and / or wheels of the machine are
wet or dirty.
Disembark the vehicle slowly and in a controlled manner. Rolling
off in an uncontrolled manner may result in serious personal injury
to the wheelchair occupants or any persons standing near the
platform.
Drivers or operators loading and unloading by means of a ramp
MUST ALWAYS make sure that they are fit and strong enough
to push up the weight of the load when going up the ramp;
to hold back, slow down or stop the weight of the load when
coming down the ramp;
without slipping or falling down.
If in doubt, DO NOT continue. Seek help. Make sure all persons
involved follow the safety instructions carefully.
ALWAYS keep the load in the centre of the platform.
