California Dump Truck Owners Association (CDTOA) - California Construction Trucking Association (CCTA)

By Judy Kerry - State Compensation Insurance Fund

Tarps are used on trucks to cover and protect a load or to prevent it from shifting. If you tarp loads or transport tarped loads make sure you’ve been informed about possible tarping hazards and the safety procedures to protect yourself and the load.

Know what type of material is being tarped to anticipate load shifts or gaps. Inspect the hauling truck to determine its height and access points. Although it’s safest to affix a tarp from the ground with the help of a mechanical device or another worker, if you’ll be maneuvering the tarp alone, make sure you’ve been trained in proper tarping procedures including loading or unloading the tarped material. Railed ladders, rack arms, and ramps can serve as safe tarping platforms.

Tarps can be heavy and awkward to move by hand, so, remember to use good body mechanics. Face the tarp, keep your back straight, and pull the tarp out with your hands at about waist height; avoid twisting or pulling it down with your arms overhead. To remove a tarp, loosen it by fanning to move air underneath. Use your arms, legs, and body weight to pull the tarp off the truck but watch out for unstable loads!

Slips and falls on or off tarped loads and trucks are a hazard. If you MUST climb the truck and onto a load, first evaluate and adjust the load for stability. Face the truck and keep three points in contact at all times while you climb and move around. Some trucks can be rigged with a sliding cable and security bars that you can hook into or you can use a fall arrest system to securely tie in. Otherwise, use the truck’s steps or a small ladder to climb and dismount. To protect your head, consider a helmet with a 3-point harness.

To prevent slips, keep a firm grip on the tarp and ropes. Spread your feet to shoulder width apart and stagger them slightly for the most power and stability. Watch for surface winds or gusts from traffic that could cause the tarp to fly away. For flatbed trucks, temporary nets or railings made of metal, plastic or canvas can be installed to prevent falls.

Never jump from the load or truck. Use caution when you walk around and over the load; watch for voids and gaps between items. When you dismount a truck or walk around to apply a tarp, watch for oncoming traffic. And, never tarp on the side of a busy road or highway.