Winter weather significantly increases loading and unloading hazards. Good Trailers’ hydraulic drop deck systems make winter safety far easier by dramatically reducing the deck height and ramp angle.
By combining this advantage with proper maintenance and safety protocols, you can protect your cargo and personnel this winter.
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The Hydraulic Drop Deck Advantage
A hydraulic drop deck system is crucial for improving safety during winter loading and unloading.
- The low-angle ramp advantage makes all the difference. The system lowers the trailer deck until it’s just 5.2 inches off the ground. The low-angle ramp is short and easy to navigate, minimizing the distance personnel must walk. The entire system reduces the amount of effort it takes to move cargo.
- Protect your cargo. The low-angle ramp significantly reduces the risk of drops, damage, and lost cargo that commonly occur when struggling up a high-angle ramp in snowy or icy conditions.
By lowering the deck and minimizing the incline, you reduce strain on employees and prevent costly accidents, promoting both employee safety and customer satisfaction.
Cold Weather Hydraulic Care
Proper fluid maintenance is essential for cold weather operation. Winterize your cold weather operation by using the correct hydraulic oil.
- In normal temperatures, you’d use N46 anti-wear hydraulic oil.
- When temperatures drop below 18°F (-8° C) you need to switch to N32 low-condensate anti-wear hydraulic oil.
The swap prevents thickening and ensures proper hydraulic function in extreme cold.
See your 3T Hydraulic Pump Manual for our single-axle trailers and the 5T Hydraulic Pump Manual for our double-axle trailers for instructions on how to swap out the oil safely.
Ramp & Surface Safety
Even with the low-angle ramp, ice requires extra vigilance. The fastest and most economical way to handle this is by adding anti-slip tape to the ramp surface. Ensure the anti-slip tape has the following features.
- Abrasive, gritty material.
- Robust adhesives suitable for metal surfaces.
- The capability to withstand moisture and cold conditions.
Recommended products: look for brands and products like Safety Track®, Black Grit Tape, No Skidding 80 Grip Tape, or Heskins Heavy Duty Anti-Slip Tape.
Essential Winter Safety Checklist
Before you begin loading or unloading, take these vital precautions to ensure safety for both personnel and equipment.
- Chock all wheels immediately after positioning the trailer.
- Clear the area. Make sure there’s nothing under the trailer before you lower it to the ground.
- Clear surfaces. The deck, ramp, and all lighting should be free of snow and ice.
Following all the checklist steps we listed in our article, “Towing a Trailer Safely” is even more vital during the winter time. Take the time to refresh your employees on these vital safety steps.
Communication & PPE
The correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and communication are both critical for cold weather safety.
- Footwear and grip. All employees should wear safe, closed-toe footwear with aggressive outsole treads and wear gloves to maintain grip and protect hands from the cold.
- Visibility. High-visibility vests are a vital safety measure when snow and low light conditions are in play.
- Teamwork. Drivers and partners must work together to signal one another when backing or pulling the trailer into a safe zone.
- Pace. Encourage slow, steady work. Pressuring employees to maintain summer speed in winter conditions is a recipe for disaster.
Additional Safety Tips
We strongly recommend bringing portable safety lighting and setting those lights up for every load and unload. Clearly illuminating the deck and the ramp is a small investment of time that prevents accidents, ensuring employees can spot slick spots or other obstacles.
For enclosed trailers, activating the 360° interior LED lighting that comes standard on Good Trailers is also essential. Excellent lighting both inside and out ensures all your cargo makes it to its destination safely.
Get Your Good Trailer Today
Our enclosed trailers are perfect for winter weather, providing safety, stability, and protection for your cargo and crew. If you haven’t made the switch yet, it’s time to talk to our sales team.
Action item: Shop now so you can take advantage of Section 179 tax advantages before the end of the year (but consult your accountant to make sure you understand how these advantages might apply).
See also:
Meeting Seasonal Business Needs with GoodMFG®
