6 Job Site Safety Mistakes You Want to Avoid
It is no secret that working with industrial vacuum trucks can be a tough job. This equipment is designed to handle tasks across a wide range of industries, including servicing portable restrooms, car wash pits, restaurant grease traps, municipal sewage lines, and so much more. However, these versatile tools also call for an elevated level of safety and discernment. Whenever you or your crew is on the job site, safety should always be at the top of everyone’s priority list.
That being said, there are common mistakes that a crew might make. In an effort to mitigate these, our FlowMark crew has provided some detailed insight on what you need to be aware of. Continue reading to get the details on six job site safety mistakes you will want to avoid!
Mistake #1: Employing individuals who aren’t certified.
Depending on what type of substances you are working with, you will need to ensure that your crew is certified. Many of the liquids and debris that an industrial vacuum truck hauls away can be classified as hazardous, requiring a specific license. If you have someone behind the wheel of your truck who has no experience or knowledge on the topic, it can spell disaster for everyone involved. Double check everyone’s certifications upon hiring and make sure that they all stay up to date with any exams or certifications they need.
Mistake #2: Not wearing the proper safety gear.
One of the quickest ways to get hurt on a job site is to forgo wearing the proper safety equipment. Operating an industrial vacuum truck calls for an elevated level of safety gear. A few of the essential items you will need include a hard hat, safety goggles, closed toe boots, and protective gloves. If you are someone who cleans up hazardous materials, your work likely requires additional gear. This might include anything from a respirator or a full hazmat suit.
During your routine safety checks or annual training, ensure that everyone on your team knows how to use their equipment. Also, whenever possible, provide additional back up gear that they can keep on hand in their trucks. Gloves can get torn and safety glasses can crack on the job site at any time. Being prepared in these types of situations will be extremely beneficial in the long run.
Mistake #3: Ignoring the limitations of your equipment.
While your equipment should be built to last, at the end of the day, it does have limitations. For example, if your industrial vacuum truck’s tank can only hold so many gallons of liquid, that’s it. Trying to push it past that point will result in a costly breakdown as well as potentially put your crew in danger. Be mindful of what is going on with your machinery and immediately stop working if you spot something that is amiss, including smoke or grinding sounds. Take the time necessary to investigate the issue and remedy it as needed.
Mistake #4: Not inspecting the job site prior to beginning work.
Before you set up shop for the day, it is crucial that you get a lay of the land. Even if you are familiar with the environment and setting, things can easily change from day to day. Being aware of your surroundings can easily prevent a life and death situation from arising. Even something as simple as looking out for wet spots on the floor of a kitchen while servicing a grease trap can prevent a nasty fall or injury.
When you are working outdoors, especially during the spring and summertime, keep an eye out for any severe weather. Be aware of the radar and forecast well in advance. Keep a weather radio or smartphone handy should you need to check for updates regarding high winds, hail, lighting, or heavy rains. Even a sunny day can turn south relatively quickly, so it’s important to keep on your toes.
Mistake #5: Failing to log data.
In this industry, you are going to be hauling some hazardous materials. Oil, grease, and human waste all pose serious threats to the environment should there be an accident or some kind of spill. That is why it is of the utmost importance that you properly log data regarding everything your industrial vacuum truck is hauling. Knowing this information will also help to avoid any kind of cross contamination or the mixing of deadly chemicals. Create a system for your fleet that is both easy to use as well as keeps up with your state’s regulations.
Mistake #6: Using outdated or faulty equipment.
Finally, know that if you are using outdated, faulty, or broken equipment, you are constantly putting you and your crew at risk. Should you notice that your fleet is in need of an upgrade or that some of your equipment isn’t performing like it should, it might be time to start shopping around for a new industrial vacuum truck. You should be on the lookout for equipment that is built to last and is going to hold up even in the face of your toughest work. Not only will this allow you to get the job done more efficiently, you will also be prioritizing your employees’ safety.
Purchase From FlowMark
Here at FlowMark, we understand the vacuum truck industry inside and out. Located right here in the heartland, all of our equipment is assembled in house meaning that you can rest assured that you are getting a high quality, American made product. Once the chassis arrive on our lot, our crew is hard at work installing everything from the tanks to the hoses that you will use each and every day.
Our service doesn’t stop there, however. Even after you’ve taken your new industrial vacuum truck back to your shop, we’re going to continue to provide you with fantastic customer service. Do you need a replacement valve? What about a water pump? Our FlowMark Parts Store makes it easy for you to find exactly what you need.
To learn more about FlowMark or to request a free quote for a vacuum truck, contact us today! We guarantee you a fast response time to help you get up and running all the quicker.