ENTERING AND EXITING VEHICLES SAFELY 

INTRODUCTION

The recommend practice is the 3-point rule. This means always having at least three points of contact with the equipment – two hands & one foot or one hand & two feet. Following the 3-point rule will provide you with the most stability, and therefore reduce the risk of slips and falls.

METHOD

Always ensure that the steps to the cab are clean and free from objects, remember to always have 3-points of contact, so two hands, one foot or two feet and one hand.

Face the cab that you are entering and place both hands on the handles then place your Left foot on the bottom step, lifting your Right leg up towards the second step slowly pull yourself upwards placing your Left foot on the second step, moving each hand up the handles without releasing them straighten up your body, then lift you left foot onto the third step and then pull yourself up onto the cab floor with your right foot, lift your left foot into the cab and sit on the driver’s seat, and close the door.

When exiting the vehicle place the right hand on the handle revise your body out (so you’re facing the interior of the vehicle) place your Left hand on the handle with both feet on the floor above the steps, place your Right foot on the third step then your Left foot on the second step and lower yourself down, then place your Right foot on the third step, again lower yourself down and place your Left foot on the ground, then place your Right foot on the ground and let go of the handles and close the door.

Other items to consider are,

• Keeping steps clear from obstructions, some drivers like to store things on them, like boots, gloves, milk etc.
• Make sure the door can be fully opened to allow full access to steps and grab rails and that the door catch is working, as it can blow shut on you while descending in bad weather.
• Park the vehicle on a flat ground, as uphill can cause the door to close on you.
• Do not use wheel trims as steps.
• Do not use the steering wheel as a grab handle.
• Do not jump down as this can damage your knees.
• If large, heavy, or awkward items are needed to be put in or taken from the vehicle ask for assistance. A step access platform is available if needed.
• Three points of contact to be maintained.
• Report damaged, wore steps and grab rails.
• Wear appropriate PPE, anti-slip footwear.
• Think about the weather, steps can become slippery when wet.
• Consider the ground you are stepping onto. Is it slippery, flat or uneven.