11/29/2023
As temperatures cool, snow plow use is heating up. Here are some tips and tricks to stay safe while plowing this snow season.
Inspect Your Vehicle Before You Start Plowing Snow
- Train operators on the proper way to inspect the plow.
- In the event that an accident occurs, it is important to document your vehicle inspections and preventative maintenance (PM’s), as these records could be questioned.
- Check your tires, fluid levels, lights, brakes, chains, plows, wings, spreaders, backup alarms, etc.
- Test all equipment to ensure it is working effectively such as GPS, laser guides, radios, etc.
- Communicate who is responsible for inspecting each vehicle and what to do if an issue is found. Keep in mind that during the winter months, additional PM’s could be required per the manufacturer’s recommendation.
- During breaks and when it is safe to do so, inspect the vehicle to make sure lights are visible and that rocks or equipment in your bed are safely secured so it doesn’t fall out and cause an accident.
- Clear snow and ice from headlights, backlights, and your windshield and warning lights as needed.
What can you do to help prevent a heavy vehicle fire during snow season?
As we approach the snow plow season, it’s crucial to address a recurring safety concern that poses a threat to public safety – electrical fires in heavy vehicles. Every winter, numerous Highway garages and snowplows are engulfed in flames, causing substantial damage to equipment, chemicals, offices, and records. Not only do these incidents result in high-cost claims, but they also impair the ability of Public Works to deliver one of their essential services during the winter months – ensuring safe roads.
So what can you do to plow snow safely?
- Start by having a qualified mechanic thoroughly inspect your vehicle’s electrical system to prevent fires.
- If you plan on attaching a plow to your vehicle, ensure that your electrical system is replaced or upgraded if necessary.
- Make sure to re-evaluate your winter preventative maintenance and inspection procedures to account for excessive use.
- If you’re driving an older vehicle, consider installing battery shut-off switches to help isolate any electrical issues.
More Ways for Your Crew to Stay Safe while Plowing Snow:
Vehicle Electrical-Related Fire Prevention during Snow Plow Season
Dump trucks, along with other heavy vehicles, face an elevated risk of catching fire during the winter and snow plowing season. Common causes include wheel bearing, brake, and tire fires, exhaust system fires, and dump bed fires. However, this guide will focus on preventing electrical-related fires in these vehicles. Download our free Tips to Help Prevent Electrical-Related Heavy Vehicle Fires here!
Snowplow Operator Safety Training
This critical emergency response function is often taken for granted but the risks associated are high and require a professional, robust approach to ensure each operator is trained appropriately. We have information for you on this topic as well – download Trident’s Public Works Snowplow Operator Training Tips to learn more.
Complete Vehicle Inspection Checklist for Snow Plow Safety
This free, downloadable checklist covers a multipoint inspection for not only fires but overall road safety preparedness.
Are you looking for a free resource to put up in your public entity’s public works garage?
Look no further!
We have a fun, easy-to-read, and easy-to-remember free resource poster for you.
With tips on what to look for and how to maintain your vehicles, this fun but informative free poster is sure to serve as a good reminder to your public works employees.