Service body and utility body safety features can be an after thought when seeking out a new or used service truck body. Typically, when searching for a truck body we look for the obvious must-haves; essential tool storage, proper length, maximum payload capabilities, quality craftsmanship and appearance.
Safety features should also be held in high consideration because cost savings does not stop at increased fuel mileage and better on-the-job efficiency.
Lost hours, worker’s comp, and other costly set-backs can prevented (or have the risk greatly reduced) by strategic safety features included with some service truck bodies.
Non-slip deck lining
A quality, non-slip coating, diamond plating, or lining on your service truck body deck is essential. You know the sign that says “slippery when wet” they throw in the middle of the aisle at the grocery store because some kid was playing with a pickle jar? Those don’t make sense to put on your service truck body.
What does make sense is to make sure your truck deck has a non-slip surface so someone doesn’t bust their tail and end up out for 8 weeks with a slipped disk.
Chances are, at some point at a job site you will encounter inclement weather. This may come as a shock, but rain (and water in general) can make surfaces slippery. When surfaces get slipper, accidents happen.
You can protect yourself against accidents, lost time, and costly insurance claims by protecting yourself with a simple non-slip lining on your service truck deck.
Strategically placed handles
It’s just a handle right?
Well, that handle can be the difference between a workers’ comp claim and a job completed on time.
Strategically placed handles on the service body, particularly near step areas, can prevent falls and provide some extra insurance for stability when you are in a position to potentially lose your balance.
A conveniently located handle, while simple in design, is a highly effective precautionary measure to ensure that you are taking action against potential lost time.
Not only will handles and grab bars allow to gain secure footing (even when off balance) they can serve as a leaning post during break time (if you are into leaning posts and that sort of thing).
Strobe and flood lights
If you do highway or roadside work, this is absolutely critical. Installation of strobe lights on service truck bodies is relatively cheap and easy, and it can save you stress, anxiety, and bodily harm in the process.
Obviously, strobe lights allow other vehicles to see where you are at. No kidding, right?
Most mechanic and construction utility bodies will have strobes and floods mounted. Those that don’t find themselves in roadside situations regularly, are those typically exposed to the dangers of not having proper lighting.
Realistically, anyone can find themselves in a roadside situation and benefit from flashing lights. Again, stating the obvious.
However, if your job infrequently requires you to be in dimly lit scenarios where you could potentially be exposed to external dangers (other moving vehicles, construction equipment, grizzly bear attacks), it may be worth your consideration to look into installing flashing strobes, hazards, or flood lights to your service truck body.
Protect yourself
No job site accident is 100% preventable. Chances are, if you have been around the block you have probably seen it all. There are preventative measures you can take to mitigate the risk of worker’s comp claims and other costly lost time incidents by adding some minor accessories to your truck body.
For more information on JOMAC service truck body accessories and safety features, please contact us by clicking here.
