INFORMATION ALERT

               WORKER FATALITY - HIGHWAY DIESEL TRACTOR UNIT

Hazard Summary:

A truck driver was killed when a highway diesel unit moved in reverse,
pinning him against an adjacent trailer. The accident occurred in an
outdoor shipping and receiving area at an industrial establishment in
Hamilton.

The Class A driver apparently started his International 9370 tractor while
standing on the ground. He could do this because the ignition switch is on
the left side of the streering column. The vehicle began moving when the
ignition button was pushed. It had apparently been left in reverse without
the Maxi brakes on. Large diesel tractors of this type will start and run
when left in gear even if the clutch is not depressed.

Location(s) and Sector(s):

Transportation Industry (Industrial Shipping/Receiving Areas)

Suggested Precautions:

Drivers should not start any vehicle except when seated inside the
vehicle.

An optional neutral safety switch is available. This switch would prevent
the vehicle from starting when not in neutral.

Drivers should be made aware of this hazard during their training in the
operation of tractor units.

NOTE:

"Information Alert" is produced by the Occupational Health and Safety
Branch, Ministry of Labour for use by Ministry inspectors, health and
safety associations and other interested groups or individuals in Ontario.
The goal of this publication is to communicate hazard information as soon
as it becomes available to prevent injury to workers. Reproduction and use
of these alerts is encouraged.