TRF/Site Traffic/TBT-TRF-008

Loading and Unloading Procedures

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Loading and Unloading Procedures

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-TRF-008  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
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What?

  • Loading and unloading vehicles is one of the highest-risk daily activities on construction sites.
  • Falls from vehicles are the most common injury during delivery operations, causing fractures and head injuries.
  • Unsecured loads shift during transit and can fall off during unloading, striking workers below.
  • Reversing delivery vehicles into unloading positions creates crush risks for pedestrians and banksmen.
  • LOLER 1998 applies when using lorry-mounted cranes (HIAB) or other lifting equipment to offload.
  • Vehicle-mounted cranes must have current thorough examination certificates before being used on site.
  • Delivery drivers unfamiliar with the site need a clear briefing on speed limits, routes, and hazards.
  • Tipper trucks must check for overhead obstructions including power lines before raising the body.
  • The weight and centre of gravity of loads must be confirmed before using any lifting equipment.
  • A designated, level unloading area with firm ground prevents vehicle instability during offloading.

Why?

Prevent fatal injuriesWorkers are killed by falling loads, vehicle overturns, and being struck by reversing delivery vehicles every year.
Falls from vehiclesClimbing onto flatbed trucks, tippers, and trailers to release loads causes falls that break bones and fracture skulls.
Legal complianceLOLER 1998, PUWER 1998, and the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations apply to site loading operations.
Do Don't
  • Designate a level, firm unloading area with adequate space for the vehicle.
  • Use a banksman to guide all reversing delivery vehicles into position.
  • Brief delivery drivers on site rules, speed limits, and hazards on arrival.
  • Check thorough examination certificates before using vehicle-mounted cranes.
  • Use three points of contact when climbing onto or off delivery vehicles.
  • Confirm load weights before operating HIAB or crane to offload materials.
  • Ensure loads are properly secured before the vehicle moves on or off site.
  • Check for overhead power lines before raising tipper truck bodies.
  • Establish an exclusion zone around the offloading area during crane operations.
  • Use mechanical handling equipment rather than manual offloading where possible.
  • DON'T allow delivery vehicles to reverse without a banksman guiding them.
  • DON'T jump off vehicles; use steps, ladders, or the vehicle access system.
  • DON'T stand under loads being lifted by HIAB, crane, or forklift.
  • DON'T release load straps until the vehicle is parked and stable.
  • DON'T raise tipper bodies near overhead power lines or height restrictions.
  • DON'T use lifting equipment without a current thorough examination certificate.
  • DON'T allow delivery drivers to operate on site without a safety briefing.
  • DON'T unload on sloping or soft ground where vehicle stability is compromised.
  • DON'T climb onto a loaded flatbed to release straps without fall protection.
  • DON'T rush the unloading process; time pressure causes mistakes and injuries.

See also: Delivery Vehicle Management | Lifting Operations Awareness (LOLER)
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