Between its hydraulic system and the ever-present potential for a load full of combustible trash, a garbage truck faces plenty of potential fire hazards in its normal operations. Beyond the threats that garbage truck fires pose to physical safety, these fires can be costly as well, given that the cost of many trucks cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Here are steps that workers can take to reduce the dangers of these fires:
Maintaining the truck
Many of the most expensive garbage truck fire incidents come from either a failure of the hydraulic lines, or an electrical fire, which can result from rodents chewing on wiring, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance.
- Establish a preventive maintenance program. Manufacturers provide guidance on what intervals the truck should be serviced — for example, at 150, 300 or 450 hours.
- Develop a preventive maintenance service checklist. This should address required inspections and other safety tasks. Many items to check are the same as on other vehicles — the engine, transmission, exhaust, electrical systems, brakes and tires, or steering and suspension.
- Pay attention to hydraulic system maintenance. In addition to inspecting all parts routinely and replacing the fluid filter regularly, this includes looking out for reduced power from leaks in the system. If a hydraulic pump fails, the oil should always be cleaned and replaced.
- Keep the garbage packer running smoothly with routine maintenance. Lubrication of all moving parts is important, and poor maintenance shortens the life of the system.
- Develop driver inspection and reporting systems. Drivers should report on any potential concerns noted before, during or after running the route.
- Maintain fire extinguishers on the truck and inspect them regularly.
- Ensure that all garbage trucks have battery disconnect switches installed. This can reduce the risk of fires caused by electrical issues, especially for overnight fires. Also, establish a written policy requiring the use of the switches anytime the trucks are parked. Periodically spot-check trucks to verify that drivers are using the switches.
Cleaning the truck
The garbage itself is frequently the culprit of a truck fire, with lithium batteries presenting a major potential for fire. Keeping the truck cleaned out therefore reduces the likelihood of a garbage fire.
- Avoid leaving waste trucks and transfer trailers loaded overnight.
- Clean all debris behind the packer blade after every shift. This allows the blade to work more effectively and extends the life of the system. Check for signs of damage while cleaning.
Managing fires
- When garbage in the truck catches on fire, have workers look for a safe place to unload the burning trash. It should be an open area away from people, cars or other objects to limit the potential spread of fire — ideally, open parking lots or vacant lots. After dumping the load, the workers should pull away from the fire and call 911. Consider establishing a written policy regarding driver procedures for handling burning loads and other vehicle fires.
- Train employees on what to do when a fire erupts. Conducting regular safety meetings with current drivers and establishing training for all new drivers can help ensure that everyone is familiar with expectations and requirements. Use methods like safety briefings and breakroom signage to remind employees of the importance of preventing vehicle fires.
For more information, contact Bethany Pendley, loss control manager, at bpendley@masc.sc or 803.933.1210.