A service employee was working on a split-rim tire assembly. He was in the process of removing the outer rear wheel on a truck-tractor. The inner wheel was still inflated which is against the recommended procedures. It exploded, blowing the outer wheel into him. He died from severe head injuries.

Split-rim wheel-assemblies are common on trucks, trailers, recreational vehicles, farm equipment, construction vehicles, and heavy equipment. Therefore, it is extremely important for anyone who changes tires – even for their own equipment – to know the hazards associated with multi-piece and split-rim wheel assemblies.