The first year of operating a dump truck is exciting, but you must remain cautious and commit to good unloading practices. If you’re new to the industry, read these helpful tips for a first-year dump truck driver. Don’t miss this beneficial information!
Commit to Maintenance
With any piece of heavy machinery, things break, stop working, or need replacement. And to be a dump truck driver, you need to understand the status of your vehicle. That’s why you must commit to maintenance and make sure everything works before a hauling job. You should perform daily inspections, like checking tire pressure, suspension cylinders, and tailgate latch. In addition, checking the overall condition of the truck and watching out for leaks or broken parts is important!
Always Unload on Even Ground
Balance is critical for operating a dump truck, especially when unloading material. Before you deposit a load, make sure you’re on even ground. Uneven ground can make your vehicle less stable and could cause it to tip over, injuring you and other workers and damaging the dump truck.
Effectively Communicate With Other Workers
Another helpful tip for a first-year dump truck driver is to communicate with other workers effectively. While performing a job, you’ll likely use hand signals with other workers to determine where to unload material. To ensure that everyone is on the same page, make sure all workers understand specific hand signals. Proper signaling prevents accidents and mishaps.
Don’t Be Afraid To Search for Hauling Jobs
There is a high demand for dump truck drivers. However, you must search for jobs in the right places. For example, joining apps or networking are some ways to find more hauling projects for your dump truck. Don’t be afraid to find jobs in your area to improve your operating skills or connect with other industry workers.
Constantly Prioritize Safety
Of course, you don’t want to hurt yourself or others, so constantly prioritizing safety is key. Before starting a job, make sure your work area is clear to avoid injuring employees. In addition, avoid operating alone because maneuvering around a worksite without an extra set of eyes is dangerous. They can direct you to the proper dumping spot or prevent you from unloading on uneven ground.