What precautions should you take when using trailers or wagons?
- context Always read, understand and follow the manufacturer’s safety manual.
- context Use a tractor with enough power to both pull and stop the load safely.
- context Only use equipment that is in good repair. Equipment should be inspected frequently for signs of wear and damage.
- context Check the tires on trailers and wagons for proper inflation, damage and wear daily, before loading, and throughout the workday.
- context Use standard hand signals when someone is helping with hitching. Make sure you and the person you are working with have coordinated the signals.
- context Use a locking jack, or jack and blocks, for hitching and unhitching a two-wheeled or tandem centre-balanced wagon.
- context Use only recommended sizes and types of locking safety hitch pins.
- context Attach the safety chain from the tractor to the frame of the towed equipment.
- context The breaking strength of safety chains must be equal to hold the total actual weight of the towed implement and any load it is carrying.
- context Distribute loads evenly and securely.
- context Start and stop the tractor smoothly.
- context Drive at a speed safe for conditions, load, and the capabilities of the tractor.
- context Watch for low branches, eaves and power lines when handling high loads.
- context Make sure the implements are put in transport positions before taking them on the road.
- context If applicable, attach a slow-moving vehicle sign (red-orange, fluorescent triangle), red flag or marker, and any appropriate lighting and reflectors.