Tipping Trailer Safety & Maintenance Checklist

Tipping trailers do heavy, repetitive work. A little regular attention keeps them safe and earning, and catches small problems before they become expensive ones. Here’s a practical checklist for operators and drivers.

Before you tip: on-site safety

Most serious tipping incidents happen during the tip itself, when the raised body makes the trailer top-heavy. Before you raise the body:

• Check the ground. Tip only on firm, level ground. Soft or sloping ground is a leading cause of trailers overturning.
• Look up. Check for overhead power lines, pipework and structures before raising the body.
• Mind the wind. Strong side winds act on a raised body like a sail. Be cautious in windy conditions.
• Unit and trailer in line. Make sure the tractor unit and trailer are straight before tipping.
• Doors and sheet open. Make sure the rear doors are released and the sheet is open before you tip.
• Keep people clear. No one should stand near the trailer, especially at the rear or sides, while tipping.

During the tip

• Watch for hang-ups. If the load sticks in the front of the body, the trailer’s centre of gravity rises sharply. Lower the body rather than shaking or jerking the trailer to free it.
• Watch the trailer, not just the load. If the trailer starts to lean, lower the body straight away.
• Lower fully before moving off. Never drive with the body raised.

Daily walk-round checks

• Tyres: condition, damage and pressures
• Lights, reflectors and markings
• Couplings and air and electrical connections
• Rear doors: hinges, locks and seals
• Sheeting system: operation and condition of the sheet
• Visible oil leaks around the ram and hydraulic lines
• Body: holes, cracks or damage that could let loads escape

Your tipping ram: warning signs

The tipping ram does the heavy lifting, so look out for:

• Oil leaks around the seals or between the stages
• Slow, jerky or uneven tipping
• The body creeping down under load
• Scoring, pitting or damage on the ram stages

Any of these means the ram needs inspecting. A failing ram is a safety risk as well as a breakdown risk.

Regular workshop maintenance

• Grease pivot points, hinges and the ram mountings regularly.
• Check hydraulic oil level and condition, and the hoses and fittings.
• Inspect the floor and sides for wear, especially on abrasive work.
• Check the weighing system is reading accurately.
• Keep up with your scheduled safety inspections and record them.

When repairs aren’t enough

If your trailer needs more than routine maintenance, such as a worn-through body, a tired ram or tired hydraulics, a refurbishment can bring it back to full working order. If it’s beyond economical repair, take a look at our new and used trailers.

This checklist is general guidance. Always follow your manufacturer’s instructions, your company’s procedures and site rules.