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Tailswing

Safety

JJ Lemire

log trucks have inherent hazards due to their large The dynamics of a load swing is aggravated if the
size and loads. There is a unique hazard to log trucks driver is distracted or not fully attentive as a turn is
though, and that is tail swing. It is a recognized hazard made. This creates an even greater danger to those
in the logging industry that needs to be watched out for traveling in and around the log truck.
anytime logs extend beyond the axle of the trailer.
Again, anytime a “LOG TRUCK” is involved in an
When the log truck makes a right or left turn, the logs accident, it damages your company’s and the
swing out well beyond the lane of traffic in which the industry’s image.
log truck is traveling into adjoining and oncoming traffic.
The lateral sweeping movement is called tail swing. Imagine your family member in a car following this
log truck. What if it happened to be your truck that
you loaded out earlier?

Each state has laws specific to the allowed overhang
length of long logs and pulp wood.

Drivers must inspect their loads and not take loads
that are unsafe. Employers must instill a safety
mindset that a few extra minutes to fix this type of
error could be a lifesaving step.

Once the driver leaves the rutted woods area, it is
recommended that he or she stop and
check the load securement.
Image is not the only thing that suffers in a
tail-swing incident. The owner and driver
According to one insurance company, tail swing is the face financial losses in the form of lost
most serious problem they face. Although it occurs productivity, increased insurance premiums
with regular commercial tractor trailers, you do not and costly repairs.
normally find the severity of damage or injury as great
as when a long-log tail swing occurs. Unfortunately, if it is not fixed, it could be a safety
devastating loss of life, property, or be a legal
In recent years, a log truck damaged a school bus as nightmare. Take time to correct the load
the long, overhanging logs went into the side of the before it before it leaves your control.
bus. There were 3 children killed and 18 other children
on that bus that were injured. This is a serious problem. DO NOT LET THIS BE THE NEXT NEWS CAST.
Reports of accidents involving tail swing show high levels
of property damage claims even if there are no injuries.

2019 Safety Meeting Record

D
Date Companyate Company
Names and Signatures of ALL attendees to be attached.

Conducted by (signature)