Transportation

Accidents involving cars and light trucks account for most of the serious injuries among field personnel. Therefore, it is incumbent on the managers and supervisors to provide training for safe vehicle operation and to ensure that operating and maintenance procedures are adhered to. Instructions on appropriate use and care of vehicles, and a defensive driving course should be scheduled for each employee as soon as they enter on duty. It is USGS policy to report personal injuries and property damage promptly and accurately. Any work-related accident must be reported to your supervisor within 3 workdays that results in damage to Government-owned or leased property of greater than $50 and/or personal injury.

The first step in safe vehicle operation is an inspection of a vehicle before beginning a trip. This inspection will include:

• Checking for adequate fuel supply, engine oil, and coolant.

• Testing of headlights, tail lights, and turn signals.

• Checking all belts and hoses.

• Checking windshield washers and wipers.

• Testing brakes and checking tires

• Checking to be sure that all equipment is properly stored and secured. Any piece of equipment or tool could become a flying projectile during a sudden stop or accident.

• Checking and adjusting rear-view mirrors.

• Ensuring vehicle is equipped with adequate safety and emergency equipment.

• Wear safe seat belts.

• Always drive defensively.

• Obey the speed limit and traffic signs.

• Be aware that road surfaces are very slippery after a brief rain and heavy rains may cause excessive accumulation of water on the road surface and hydroplaning of the vehicle. Adjust your speed accordingly.

• Do not ford a stream or flooded road section without first checking for deep holes or washouts.

• Test brakes after fording a stream or any deep water; they probably will be wet and not as responsive as normal.

• Be aware of weather conditions. A dry road or track going into a field site may become wet and impassable coming out after changes in weather conditions.

• Be especially cautious on logging and mining roads. Logging trucks have the right-of-way on a logging road. Expect loaded logging, ore, and coal trucks to take up the inside of curves even when traveling on an outside lane.

• Be especially aware of wild animals and open-range livestock while driving at night when animals tend to be on the move and transfixed by headlights.

• Avoid traveling during snow and ice storms. If you must travel, maintain a safe speed and test for traction frequently. Learn how to drive safely and handle your vehicle in severe weather conditions. Use proper equipment (i.e. snow tires and chains).

• Drive only on existing, well-established back roads or trails. Avoid driving on agricultural fields, open pasture, fragile desert, alpine, or other unsafe areas.

• Always attempt to park your vehicle completely off the road surface and shoulder. If this is not possible, use orange pylons, traffic cones, reflectors, emergency flashers, etc., to warn approaching motorists.

http://water.er.usgs.gov/pubs/ofr/ofr95777/transportation.html
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Last Modified: 09:56 27June1996 ghc