3-Point Contact Labels Address Safety Concerns in Transportation Industry

While no single OSHA standard prescribes 3-point contact by name, vehicle mounting and dismounting falls in trucking and warehousing are directly covered by the OSHA General Duty Clause, Section 5(a)(1), which requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause death or serious physical harm. For forklift operators specifically, 29 CFR 1910.178 requires that operators exercise caution with footing when mounting and dismounting. Posting 3-point contact labels at every cab access point demonstrates a documented commitment to hazard communication, which supports an employer’s defense under the General Duty Clause if an incident occurs.

Falling or slipping from the truck while getting on or off is the most common cause of accidents among truckers. According to a study–spread over five years–by the Infrastructure Health & Safety Association, Canada, 50 percent of all injuries in trucking industry were a result of slips and falls.

Such falls can lead to serious back and shoulder injuries. Our 3-Point Contact Labels remind drivers to safely enter and exit tractor-trailer cabs, forklifts, and other industrial trucks.

What is 3-point contact?

The 3-point contact system means that three of your four limbs are always in contact with the vehicle.

It can be either-

• Two hands and one foot
• Two feet and one hand

This is a way for truck operators to have maximum stability while mounting or dismounting a stationary truck. Maintaining a 3-point contact till one reaches the ground, cab, or a stable platform helps minimize slip and fall hazards.

Where to apply 3-point contact labels

• Tractor-trailer cab doors and grab handle areas
• Tanker truck access ladders and rear platforms
• Forklift operator compartment entry points (per 29 CFR 1910.178 mounting guidance)
• Construction equipment cabs: excavators, dump trucks, concrete mixers
• Aerial lift and boom lift baskets
• Trailer roll-up and swing doors where drivers step up to load
• Agricultural equipment: combine cabs, tractor platforms
• Step van delivery trucks (the most common vehicle class for this injury type, per CDC research)

How can labels help?

3-Point Contact Labels can be applied right at the access point of any truck, back of a tanker, trailer roll-up or swing door, and more. The labels clearly indicate all the three contact points graphically and remind to enter and egress a truck safely. Made of vinyl, these flexible labels are supplied with engineer grade adhesive that ensures a permanent application.

How to safely mount and dismount a truck?

Besides heeding to the 3-point contact system, truckers need to remember the following:

• Use shoes with good support — avoid sandals or high heels. Do not climb or exit with bare feet.
• Face the cab during exit and entry
• Be cautious and slow down in bad weather
• Get a secure grip on guardrails or handles
• Never descend holding something in your free hand. Put it on the vehicle floor and pick it once you get down
• Don’t hurry when you climb out after a long run. Descend slowly, to avoid straining a muscle
• Never jump out. You may lose balance or fall
• Don’t use tires or wheel hubs as a step surface
• Avoid using door frame or door edge as a handhold
• Always be aware of your surroundings and any obstacles around you.

Category: News / New Products, Safety Tips