Important Safety Considerations for Log Hauling

Important Safety Considerations for Log Hauling

Logging is a necessary industry in our economy. People across the country rely on timber for their homes, furniture and other items. How does raw timber get from the forests to various destinations? Like many other items that must travel long distances, large trucks are usually involved.

According to the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the timber industry is one of the most dangerous in the nation. When you add commercial trucks to the equation, you have a profession that can be very dangerous without the proper safety precautions.

Common Risks

The safety of your drivers can be at risk due to the nature of the the logging trucks and the job, as the following points illustrate:

  • An unbalanced load might cause the chains securing logs to break, or the truck to tip or jackknife.
  • Overhanging cargo might be unstable or present a risk to nearby traffic.
  • If a logging truck is inadequately flagged or poorly illuminated and is not sufficiently visible to drivers, an accident might occur.
  • Common truck driver hazards, such as fatigue, distraction and speed, are as prevalent among logging trucks as any other big rig.

Safety Tips 

When an individual encounters a shipment of timber on the highway, it is wise to give the truck a wide berth, but they may not always do so. As soon as they are safely able to, they may want to go around the truck. It is important that log hauling trucks provide other vehicles on the road with a good amount of room, do not make any sudden movements, and provide plenty of advance notice before turning or stopping. You may be held liable for any unsafe conditions, such as negligent driving or improper loading that could lead to an accident.

Roads can be muddy, so hauling in the cold night air may be advised to help keep the roads firm. All operations should be done with the headlights on day or night. It is smart for drivers to familiarize themselves with the haul route beforehand.

Drivers should do a detailed inspection of the truck every day. Repair items must be noted and tended to as soon as possible. Never ever leave a maintenance issue unsolved! 

All truck compartments should be clean and organized with no loose objects and all trucks should be equipped with the following:

  • Roadside flares
  • First aid equipment
  • Load flags/Lights
  • Fire extinguisher 
  • Shevel 
  • Axe
  • Tire chains   

Driver’s personal protective equipment should include non-slip boots, high visibility hard hat, and a high visibility vest. It is very important that no one ever stand next to the cab when a truck is being loaded.  

Log hauling is a potentially dangerous profession with very unique risks. Securing general business insurance coverage is a start, but in order to be completely covered in the event of any possible claim, it is crucial to obtain specialized log hauling insurance from an agency that knows the industry inside and out.

About Tobico Trucking Insurance

Trucking insurance is one of the most difficult types of insurance to obtain, but it doesn’t have to be. At Tobico Trucking Insurance, we are experienced and knowledgable about the trucking insurance market and the needs of trucking operations of all types and sizes. You need an agent who has the specialized knowledge of this ever-changing industry, and we have the products and the dedicated customer service to provide you with what you need. For more information, contact us any time of day at (469) 731-0707 to find out how we can help you.