FACTS

Loading of pipes and barrels poses various hazards, including:

1. Physical injuries: During the loading process, workers may suffer physical injuries such as cuts, bruises, and fractures caused by heavy barrels or pipes falling on them.
2. Back and muscle strains: Loading of pipes and barrels often involves lifting heavy objects, which can cause back and muscle strains.
3. Slip, trips, and falls: The loading area may be slippery or uneven, which can cause workers to slip, trip, or fall, resulting in injuries.
4. Chemical exposure: Pipes and barrels may contain hazardous chemicals or substances, and workers can be exposed to them during the loading process, resulting in skin irritation, respiratory problems, or even more severe health issues.
5. Fire and explosion: If pipes or barrels contain flammable or explosive substances, any spark or ignition source during the loading process can cause a fire or explosion.
6. Equipment failure: The equipment used to load pipes and barrels, such as cranes and forklifts, may malfunction, causing accidents and injuries.
7. Improper handling: If pipes or barrels are not loaded properly, they can become unstable, leading to accidents and injuries.

STATS

• According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), cargo securement violations related to pipes and barrels were among the most frequently cited violations during roadside inspections of commercial vehicles in 2020. In that year, there were a total of 11,371 cargo securement violations cited during inspections, of which 1,368 were specifically related to pipes and 1,067 were related to barrels.
• In the BLS’s most recent data release for 2020, the transportation and warehousing industry had a total of 267,900 reported nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses. This includes injuries related to cargo securement, such as those caused by improperly secured pipes.