Inspection Detail

Inspection: 126152321 - Interior Removal Specialists

Inspection Information - Office: Los Angeles District Office

Investigation Summary

On March 25, 2006, Employee #1 and a coworker were delivering four rolling bins ("1-yarders" each with a capacity of 1 cubic ft) to a customer. The bins had been loaded onto a truck at the company's site and were locked in with a gate during transport in accordance with established company procedures. After arriving at the site, the driver instructed Employee #1 to remain on the loading dock while he backed the truck to the dock. For unknown reasons, Employee #1 jumped from the loading dock to the back of the truck, and then was either knocked off, or fell to the ground. The bins, which were no longer secured by the gate, rolled off the bed of the truck. One of the containers struck Employee #1's right leg, resulting in a fractured femur. He was hospitalized for treatment and underwent surgery. The employer had a comprehensive injury and illness prevention program that contained the required elements and has provided regular and on-going training to employees and supervisors. Additionally, the employer had written procedures for loading and unloading containers that emphasized proper securing of bins and communication between employees during the process.

Keywords: DELIVERY WORK, FRACTURE, UNSECURED, WORK RULES, TRUCK, FALLING OBJECT, LOADING DOCK, COMMUNICATION, BACKING UP, LEG