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Discover the complete document on essential safety measures when working with concrete trucks. Learn about inspection, maintenance, and emergency response procedures to help protect yourself and the environment during operation.
PART I: CURRENT STATE OF SAFETY FOR WORK RELATED TO CONCRETE TRUCKS
I. General Situation
The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:- Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
- Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
- Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).
The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.
II. Some Occupational Accidents While Operating a Concrete Truck
Operating a concrete truck is a job that demands a high degree of caution and professional skill from the driver. During operation, there are many risk factors that can cause occupational accidents, affecting the health and safety of the driver and those around them. Below are some common accidents that concrete truck drivers may encounter:
- Accidents due to loss of vehicle control: When operating a concrete truck, especially on uneven roads or difficult terrain, there is a risk of losing control and the vehicle overturning. This can happen due to inappropriate speed, the force of the concrete load in the drum not being evenly distributed, or a lack of experience in operating the vehicle in difficult conditions.
- Accidents during concrete pouring: Pouring concrete is an activity that requires precision and care. Accidents can occur when concrete is poured improperly, creating unwanted pressure on the truck’s drum or causing a risk of concrete spillage, affecting the health and safety of workers near the pouring area.
- Accidents due to overloading: Overloading a concrete truck not only increases the risk of losing control during operation but also causes wear and tear on the vehicle’s mechanical parts, leading to breakdowns and accidents.
- Health risks for the driver: Concrete truck drivers often have to work in a noisy environment and may be exposed to harmful chemicals from the concrete. This can cause hearing and respiratory problems, affecting the driver’s health over time.
- Traffic accidents: Like any other vehicle, a concrete truck also has the risk of causing traffic accidents while on the road, especially when moving in heavy traffic or on roads with difficult driving conditions.
To minimize the risk of occupational accidents when operating a concrete truck, providing professional training for drivers, strictly adhering to occupational safety regulations, and using protective equipment are important measures that must be implemented and followed.
PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN OPERATING A CONCRETE TRUCK
I. Introduction
A. Overview of the importance of occupational safety when operating a concrete truck
Occupational safety is an extremely important factor in the operation of a concrete truck. First and foremost, it affects the health and lives of the driver and those around them. Occupational accidents can have serious consequences not only for the individual but also for their family and the community at large.
In addition, occupational safety also affects the efficiency and quality of work. When drivers feel safe and their health is assured, they can concentrate more on their work, reducing the risk of making mistakes due to a lack of focus.
Occupational safety also plays a crucial role in minimizing material damage. Occupational accidents not only result in human loss but also incur large costs for vehicle repairs and compensation for any resulting damages.
Furthermore, complying with occupational safety regulations also helps to enhance the reputation and image of the business. A business with a good occupational safety regime not only attracts talent but is also highly regarded by customers for its level of professionalism and responsibility.
B. Important safety protocols and regulations when operating a concrete truck
- Ensure safety equipment is working properly: Before starting, the driver needs to thoroughly check safety equipment such as the braking system, suspension system, lights, and horn to ensure they are working correctly.
- Adhere to appropriate load and size limits: Adhering to the vehicle’s permissible load and size is very important to avoid the risk of losing control due to overloading, as well as to ensure compliance with traffic regulations.
- Use personal protective equipment: The driver needs to ensure they use full personal protective equipment such as a helmet, safety glasses, gloves, and safety shoes to protect themselves from the risk of occupational accidents.
- Follow safe concrete pouring procedures: Pouring concrete is a hazardous activity, so it is necessary to follow the correct procedures to ensure the safety of both the driver and those working nearby.
- Ensure attention while driving: The driver needs to maintain a high level of concentration and not be distracted by external factors such as mobile phones or conversations with passengers in the vehicle.
II. Components and Functions of a Concrete Truck
A. The different components of a concrete truck
- Concrete Drum: The concrete drum is the main part of the truck, where concrete is contained and transported from the plant to the construction site. The drum can be made of stainless steel or other heat-resistant materials to ensure strength and safety during operation.
- Concrete Mixing System: The concrete mixing system includes parts such as a mixing shaft, blades, and a drive system to mix the concrete inside the drum. This ensures that the concrete is mixed evenly and is of high quality before being poured where needed.
- Concrete Pump System (if equipped): Some concrete trucks are equipped with a concrete pump system to easily pour concrete into hard-to-reach or higher locations on a construction site.
- Braking and Steering System: Like any other vehicle, a concrete truck is also equipped with a braking system and a steering system to ensure safety during operation on the road.
- Suspension and Wheel System: The suspension and wheel system is designed to ensure stability and good load-bearing capacity when transporting concrete over various terrains.
B. Structure and operating principle of a concrete truck
A concrete truck is a specialized vehicle designed to transport and distribute concrete from a production plant to construction sites. The structure of a concrete truck typically includes a large concrete drum located at the rear of the vehicle, which can rotate on an axis to mix the concrete during transport. This drum is usually made of heat-resistant material such as stainless steel or carbon steel.
The operating principle of a concrete truck involves the process of mixing, transporting, and pouring concrete. When the concrete truck leaves the plant, the concrete has already been mixed in the drum according to precise proportions. During transit, the mixing system inside the drum will continue to work to ensure the concrete remains evenly mixed and does not separate.
Upon arrival at the required location, the concrete truck will be positioned appropriately to pour the concrete. Some concrete trucks are equipped with a pump system to push the concrete from the drum to the pouring location, while others may use the force of gravity from the weight of the concrete to pour it out of the drum.
C. Applications in the construction industry of the concrete truck
- Saves time and effort: A concrete truck saves time and effort for construction workers by transporting concrete directly from the production plant to the construction site, eliminating the step of mixing concrete on-site.
- Ensures concrete quality: The use of a concrete truck helps ensure the quality of the concrete by mixing and transporting it in a controlled environment.
- Increases work efficiency: By using a concrete truck, the work of transporting and pouring concrete becomes faster and more efficient, helping to increase work productivity and save costs.
- Suitable for large and small projects: Concrete trucks can be used in large construction projects such as high-rise buildings and bridges, or in smaller projects like residential houses and villas, ensuring flexibility and diversity in application.
- Minimizes waste: Using a concrete truck helps to minimize material waste due to mixing concrete at the plant, helping to optimize the use of raw materials and reduce production costs.
D. Risks associated with operating a concrete truck
- Risk of traffic accidents: Concrete trucks often travel on highways or in crowded urban areas. Delays, lack of observation, or lack of concentration can lead to serious traffic accidents, not only affecting the driver but also threatening the safety of other road users.
- Risk of loss of control and rollover: Operating a concrete truck on uneven terrain or in bad weather conditions can pose a risk of losing control and rollovers, especially when the weight in the concrete drum is not evenly distributed.
- Risk of occupational accidents when pouring concrete: The process of pouring concrete can encounter many risks such as concrete spillage, collision with obstacles causing equipment damage, or even danger to workers nearby.
- Health risks for the driver: Concrete truck drivers often have to work in a noisy environment and are exposed to harmful chemicals from the concrete, which can cause hearing and respiratory problems.
- Risk of environmental impact: Leaks or spills of concrete from a concrete truck can cause environmental pollution and affect water and soil resources.
III. Safety Inspection and Maintenance Before Operating a Concrete Truck
A. Safety checks before operating a concrete truck
- Check the braking system: Ensure the braking system is working properly by checking the brake pressure and the stiffness of the brake pedal. If necessary, add brake fluid or replace faulty parts to ensure optimal braking performance.
- Check the steering system: Ensure the steering system operates smoothly and has no looseness. Also, check the steering wheel and suspension system to ensure stability during operation on the road.
- Check lights and signals: Ensure all lights (headlights, taillights, turn signals) are working correctly and no bulbs are burnt out. Also, check the horn to ensure it functions when needed.
- Check the suspension system and wheels: Check the tires to ensure they have enough pressure and are not damaged. Check the suspension system to ensure there are no signs of leaks or damage.
- Check the concrete drum: If applicable, check the concrete drum to ensure it is clean and has no cracks or leaks that could cause concrete loss during transport.
B. Guide to periodic maintenance of a concrete truck
- Check oil and oil filter: Ensure that the engine oil and oil filters are changed at the correct intervals to maintain the smooth operation of the engine and protect it from potential damage.
- Check the braking system: Inspect and replace any faulty parts in the braking system, such as brake pads and brake lines, to ensure optimal braking performance.
- Check the suspension system and wheels: Check and readjust tire pressure to ensure tire longevity and vehicle stability during operation on the road.
- Check the electrical system: Inspect the vehicle’s electrical system, including lights, horn, and starting system, to ensure they are working correctly.
- Check the concrete mixing system (if equipped): Ensure the concrete mixing system inside the drum is operating smoothly and has no issues that could affect the quality of the concrete.
IV. Safe Operating Procedure for a Concrete Truck
A. Step-by-step guide to the safe operation of a concrete truck
- Pre-departure vehicle check: Before starting, thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s systems such as brakes, steering, suspension, and electrical systems to ensure they are working correctly.
- Ensure appropriate load and size: Determine and adhere to the appropriate load and size of the concrete truck to avoid the risk of overloading and to ensure compliance with traffic regulations.
- Ensure concrete is evenly mixed in the drum: Before departure, ensure the concrete has been evenly mixed in the drum by activating the mixing system if necessary.
- Drive carefully and patiently: During operation, drive carefully and patiently, adhering to speed limits and traffic rules to avoid the risk of accidents.
- Follow safe concrete pouring procedures: Upon arrival at the construction site, follow safe concrete pouring procedures, including choosing a suitable pouring location, ensuring vehicle stability, and adhering to occupational safety regulations.
- Perform regular inspection and maintenance: Finally, after each trip, inspect and maintain the vehicle regularly to ensure its safety and performance for subsequent operations.
B. Emergency procedures and incident response mechanisms when operating a concrete truck
- Stop the vehicle and ensure safety: In the event of an incident, the driver should stop the vehicle immediately and ensure the safety of everyone in and around the vehicle by turning on hazard lights and placing warning signs.
- Report the incident and request assistance: The driver should report the incident to the management department or authorities and request assistance if necessary.
- Check the situation and assess the risk: The driver needs to check the current situation and assess the risk to determine the scope and impact of the incident.
- Take immediate corrective action: Depending on the type of incident, the driver needs to take immediate corrective actions such as trying to restart the vehicle, using the emergency brake system, or locating and troubleshooting the problem.
- Contact the manufacturer or support service: In some complex cases, the driver may need to contact the manufacturer or support service directly to receive professional assistance.
V. Risk Assessment and Hazard Management When Operating a Concrete Truck
A. Identifying potential risks and hazards in operating a concrete truck
- Risk of traffic accidents: Concrete trucks are often large and heavy, making them prone to causing accidents when operating on city streets, especially in congested traffic conditions or rain.
- Risk of loss of control and rollover: The heavy weight of the concrete in the drum can make the vehicle unstable, especially when operating on hilly terrain or curved roads.
- Risk of occupational accidents when pouring concrete: The process of pouring concrete can encounter many risks such as concrete spillage and collision with obstacles, causing equipment damage or even danger to workers nearby.
- Health risks for the driver: Concrete truck drivers often have to work in a noisy environment and are exposed to harmful chemicals from the concrete, which can cause hearing and respiratory problems.
- Risk of environmental impact: Leaks or spills of concrete from a concrete truck can cause environmental pollution and affect water and soil resources.
B. Effective hazard prevention strategies when operating a concrete truck
1. Regular inspection and maintenance of the concrete truck for safe operation
- Check the braking system: Ensure that the braking system is working effectively by checking the wear of the brake pads and the stiffness of the brake pedal, as well as checking the brake fluid pressure.
- Check the steering and suspension systems: Inspect the steering system and suspension parts to ensure they are not loose and are operating smoothly, helping to maintain the vehicle’s stability and control on the road.
- Check the electrical system: Ensure that all of the vehicle’s electrical systems, such as lights, horn, and starting system, are working correctly to enhance visibility and safety when moving.
- Check the concrete mixing system (if equipped): If the truck is equipped with a concrete mixing system, check that this system is operating smoothly and has no issues that could affect the quality of the concrete.
2. Adherence to occupational safety regulations for the safe operation of a concrete truck
- Training and provision of personal protective equipment: All personnel involved in operating a concrete truck must be trained in occupational safety and provided with full personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, and sun-protective clothing.
- Adherence to safe concrete pouring procedures: Everyone involved in the concrete pouring process must follow safety procedures such as ensuring a safe location, using protective equipment, and minimizing the risk of occupational accidents.
- Regular inspection and maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance of the concrete truck are also part of the occupational safety regulations, aimed at ensuring the vehicle always operates at a safe and effective level.
- Adherence to regulations on working hours and rest: Adhering to regulations on working hours and rest helps to ensure the driver’s health and mental state, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents due to fatigue and stress.
- Reporting and reflecting on incidents: All incidents or safety issues must be reported and reflected on immediately to take timely corrective measures and prevent recurrence.
3. Identifying and marking safe zones when operating a concrete truck
- Identify the safe zone around the vehicle: Before starting operation, identify and clearly mark the safe zones around the vehicle, including the front, rear, and both sides. Ensure no one or any object is near this area to avoid accidents.
- Safe zone for pouring concrete: When pouring concrete, identify the safe zone around the concrete drum and mark it clearly to prevent others from approaching and to minimize the risk of collisions or concrete spillage.
- Mark the employee work zone: Ensure that the employee work zone is identified and clearly marked to avoid collisions with the concrete truck and to keep everyone safe.
- Identify pedestrian and hazardous zones: Clearly mark pedestrian walkways and other vehicle paths, as well as hazardous zones, to avoid collisions with the concrete truck.
- Use safety signs and signals: Use safety signs and signals such as “No Entry” and warning signs to indicate safe and hazardous zones.
4. Using personal protective equipment when operating a concrete truck
- Helmet: A helmet should be worn when driving a concrete truck to protect the head from the risk of impacts and falling materials from above.
- Safety glasses: Use safety glasses to protect the eyes from materials or chemicals that could cause injury when operating a concrete truck.
- Safety gloves: Wear safety gloves to protect hands from sharp materials or harmful chemicals when in contact with concrete.
- Sun and chemical resistant jacket: Use a sun and chemical resistant jacket to protect the skin from the effects of UV rays and chemicals during operation.
- Safety shoes: Wear safety shoes with non-slip and puncture-resistant soles to protect the feet from the risk of impacts and punctures from falling or moving materials.
5. Emergency procedures and response in case of an incident when operating a concrete truck
- Stop the vehicle and ensure safety: The driver should stop immediately and ensure the safety of everyone by turning on hazard lights and placing warning signs.
- Report the incident and request assistance: The driver should report the incident to the authorities and request assistance if necessary.
- Check the situation and assess the risk: The driver needs to check the current situation and assess the risk to determine the scope and impact of the incident.
- Take immediate corrective action: Depending on the type of incident, the driver needs to take immediate corrective actions such as trying to restart the vehicle, using the emergency brake system, or resolving the problem quickly.
- Contact the manufacturer or support service: In complex incidents, the driver needs to contact the manufacturer or support service directly to receive professional assistance.
6. Participate in occupational safety training courses for operating a concrete truck
Occupational safety and health training is not just a legal requirement but also a commitment to the safety and health of workers. It helps employees recognize and deal with risks and dangerous situations, thereby minimizing accidents, injuries, or fatalities in their daily work.
The risk of accidents is always present and can occur at any time in the work environment due to human error and the unpredictability of situations. This emphasizes the need for occupational safety training and constant vigilance.
When participating in occupational safety training at the An Toan Nam Viet Center, workers will receive systematic training from theory to real-life risk scenarios. Accordingly, there will be measures to identify and prevent occupational accident risks that may occur during work. After the training course, trainees will take occupational safety tests to obtain an occupational safety certificate. From there, workers will have a firm grasp of safety knowledge as well as a valid certification for work.
VI. Factors Affecting Occupational Safety When Operating a Concrete Truck
A. How weather conditions affect the operation of a concrete truck
- Rain and snow: When it rains or snows, slippery roads can increase the risk of losing control of the vehicle. Operating a concrete truck in these conditions requires a high degree of caution and professional driving skills.
- Hot sun: High temperatures can affect the quality of the concrete and increase the risk of water loss from the concrete mix, causing a weakening of the structure. In addition, hot sun can also cause driver fatigue and increase the risk of accidents.
- Strong wind: Strong wind can make it difficult to control the vehicle, especially when operating on bridges or hilly roads.
- Poor lighting conditions: In low light conditions or at night, it can be more difficult to identify and respond to dangerous situations.
- Fog: Fog can reduce the driver’s visibility, causing a risk of collisions and accidents.
B. How the working environment affects the operation of a concrete truck
- Temperature: Both high and low temperatures can affect the performance of a concrete truck. In high-temperature conditions, concrete can dry faster, reducing the driver’s working time and increasing the risk of concrete quality issues. Meanwhile, low temperatures can cause the concrete to set too quickly, affecting the mixing and pouring process.
- Humidity: High humidity can increase the setting time of concrete and reduce the bonding ability of its components. Meanwhile, low humidity can cause water loss from the concrete and reduce the durability of the structure.
- Dust and pollution: A work environment polluted by dust and harmful substances can affect employee health and cause respiratory health problems.
- Noise: Noise from the operation of a concrete truck can cause stress and affect the hearing health of employees.
- Lighting: A poorly lit work environment can reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents.
C. How the technical condition of the concrete truck affects its operation
- Operating performance: A concrete truck needs to operate at a high level of performance to ensure the safe and efficient transport of concrete. Poor technical condition can lead to incidents or reduced vehicle performance.
- Safety: Parts of the concrete truck such as the braking system, steering system, and suspension system must operate correctly to ensure the safety of the driver and other employees on the road.
- Fuel economy: Good technical condition can help a concrete truck save fuel by optimizing engine and drivetrain performance.
- Reliability: A concrete truck needs to be reliable to ensure the transport of concrete on schedule and without causing unwanted incidents.
- Periodic maintenance: Regular maintenance and servicing of the concrete truck are important to ensure good technical condition and a high level of safety when operating on the road.
D. How the safety knowledge and skills of the worker affect the operation of a concrete truck
- Understanding of safety procedures: Workers need to have a solid knowledge of the safety procedures when operating a concrete truck, including how to use personal protective equipment and accident prevention measures.
- Professional driving skills: Professional driving skills are a decisive factor in controlling a concrete truck safely in all road conditions.
- Ability to assess risks and react flexibly: Workers need to have the ability to assess situations and react flexibly in the event of an incident or emergency when operating a concrete truck.
- Knowledge of basic maintenance and repair: Knowledge of basic maintenance and repair can help workers to recognize and resolve minor technical issues on a concrete truck quickly and effectively.
- Safety and self-protection mindset: A safety and self-protection mindset is an important factor for workers to be able to recognize and avoid dangerous situations when operating a concrete truck.
VII. Occupational Safety Training on Skills for Safe Operation of a Concrete Truck
A. Why operators of concrete trucks need occupational safety training
Providing occupational safety training for concrete truck operators is extremely important for many reasons. First, it helps them to clearly understand the potential risks and hazards in the process of operating the vehicle, from moving on the road to handling concrete. Second, training helps them to master professional driving skills, including how to control the vehicle in difficult road conditions such as rain, snow, and hilly terrain.
Third, operators need to know how to properly use personal protective equipment to protect themselves from the risk of accidents and injuries. Finally, occupational safety training helps to create a safe work culture, encouraging attention and adherence to safety procedures from all employees, minimizing the risk of accidents, and promoting a safe and healthy work environment.
B. Where to get occupational safety training for operating a concrete truck?
An Toan Nam Viet is a reputable and high-quality occupational safety training center in Vietnam today. With occupational safety training sessions held continuously at production workshops, factories, or construction sites across the country (63 provinces in Vietnam).
To ensure the effectiveness of the training, An Toan Nam Viet prepares meticulously, down to the smallest detail. From preparing tools, equipment, teaching aids to curriculum, materials, sound, and lighting.
The occupational safety trainers at An Toan Nam Viet are experts with many years of experience in the field. They even have research projects identifying hazards in all occupations and how to prevent them.
The instructors’ lectures are drawn from practical experience and are conveyed in a vivid, easy-to-visualize manner to the workers. These factors help workers feel comfortable during their study time and absorb the teaching knowledge well. Of course, the knowledge conveyed always adheres to Decree 44/2016/ND-CP. From there, they grasp many measures to prevent hazards and how to protect themselves. They also apply it most appropriately in their actual work.
VIII. The Significance of Occupational Safety in Operating a Concrete Truck
A. The importance of maintaining occupational safety in the operation of a concrete truck
Maintaining occupational safety in the operation of a concrete truck is extremely important for many reasons. First and foremost, it ensures the protection of the driver and everyone else on the road. With the handling and transport of tons of concrete, an accident can have severe consequences, threatening the lives and health of everyone.
Second, maintaining occupational safety helps to minimize property damage and legal costs for the company. Accidents can cause large financial losses and can lead to complex legal issues. Finally, maintaining occupational safety creates a positive work environment and encourages cooperation and unity within the work team.
When everyone feels safe and protected, they can focus on their work more effectively, leading to better work performance and a reduced risk of accidents.
B. Important safety measures to know before operating a concrete truck
Before operating a concrete truck, the driver must master several important safety measures to ensure their own safety and that of everyone around them. First, they need to thoroughly inspect the vehicle, including the braking system, steering system, suspension system, and lights, to ensure everything is working correctly.
Second, they must ensure that the concrete is loaded onto the vehicle safely and correctly, ensuring that the load is evenly distributed across the entire vehicle. In addition, it is very important to ensure that personal protective equipment such as a helmet and safety shoes are worn correctly. Complete the occupational safety training course to be issued an occupational safety card by the training center to ensure proper documentation for work.
Finally, the driver must adhere to a safe speed and always pay attention to the driving environment, from road conditions to surrounding vehicles, to ensure a safe and successful trip.
PART III: Further Reading
1. Group 3 Occupational Safety Test
2. Price Quote for Occupational Safety Training Services
3. Download Documents
- Download occupational safety training document for operating a concrete truck
- Slide presentation for occupational safety training when operating a concrete truck
- Multiple choice test on occupational safety when operating a concrete truck