Never Get Under a Lifted Load

By Randall C. Resch An experienced Florida tow operator was preparing a vehicle for tow and was allegedly lying underneath the lifted vehicle. It’s not readily clear if there was a mechanical failure or exactly how the vehicle dropped onto the operator.

Whether he was hurriedly working to drop the transmission linkage to neutral or performing another task, the vehicle wasn’t supported by jackstands. In a sad yet realistic happening of fate, he was crushed to death when the vehicle fell on him.

A Dangerous Old Practice

I recall my days on straight commission conducting private property impounds. Dropping a vehicle’s linkage from underneath was (and still is) a dangerous, deadly practice.

The process was fast and simple: lift the vehicle, shimmy underneath, loosen or pop the linkage, and shift to neutral.

When “shift to neutral” was activated, it generated that distinguishing “audible clunk,” where I’d instinctively close my eyes, reach for my chest, and for a moment realize the vehicle didn’t fall on top of me. Towers who’ve worked the PPI trenches know just how dangerous that process is.

Training Must Address “Going Underneath”

As many as forty-two tow operators have been crushed to death while dropping transmission linkages, shimmying under cars to smack a stuck starter, dropping driveshafts, or preparing buses and RVs while positioning lumber for ramping. A common factor in many fatalities is simply “going underneath.” This demands specific safety training.

Common sense should dictate that standing or lying under lifted loads is a deadly practice. When was the last time your driver safety training focused on the dangers of lifted loads?

Reviewing industrial fatality data shows company safety programs must include proper use of tow dollies, jackstands, and chocking of tires. It’s surprising how many owners fail to outfit wreckers and carriers with these essential safety items.

Safety Is Ownership Responsibility

There is no universal safety standard in towing. Safety becomes the responsibility of owners who truly care about survival — and about their operators’ lives.

For operators using remote controls, standing near or underneath lifted loads is extremely risky. Remote controllers allow distance from lift zones, yet many operators place themselves in danger by losing awareness of where they’re standing. A similar situation likely caused the fatal injuries of a California heavy operator crushed by a dump truck he was attempting to right.

Safety comes first. Tow, transport, and recovery involve dangerous environments. Don’t forget breakaway loads and “The Death Pendulum,” another serious risk during lifted load recovery.

Best Practices That Save Lives

Tow companies should focus on total risk management and apply best practices suited to daily operations. To lessen potential operator injury or fatality: -- Outfit tow trucks with jackstands and chock-blocks-- Include policies requiring use of dollies, jackstands, and chocks-- Policy:No more shaft removal or shifting transmission linkages from underneath — dolly only-- Remove parts and catalytic converters only with a shop lift, never by dangling chain-- Policy:Operators remain outside drop zones when working lifted loads-- Teach creative hookup procedures using heavy fork/underreach attachments-- Use jacks and jackstands during tire service-- Repeat safety training — shortcuts lead to deadly outcomes-- Ensure operators attend hands-on training

Change the Thinking

These topics are worth repeating. Sparing an operator’s life is more important than what dollars are earned on a call. Change means ceasing the practice of going under cars to prepare them for tow. Throw dollies instead.

For towers who believe speed is in their favor, remember: when speed goes up, safety goes down. The excuse that dollies take too long is long overused. Smart owners and operators understand the bigger picture of operational safety and survival versus being killed in a preventable incident.

The reminder remains the same: Never get under a lifted load.

Operations Editor Randall C. Resch is a retired, veteran, California police officer, former tow business owner and industry advocate. As consultant and trainer, he authored and teaches tow truck operator safety courses approved by the California Highway Patrol. For 57-years, he has been involved in the towing and recovery industry. In 29-years, he has contributed more than 775-safety focused articles for American Towman Magazine, TowIndustryWeek.com and is a frequent seminar presenter and beauty pageant judge at tow shows. In 2014, he was inducted to the International Towing and Recovery Industry Hall of Fame, was the 3rd recipient of the industry's "Dave Jones Leadership Award," and is a member of American Towman’s Safety Committee. 

Email Randy at rreschran@gmail.com.