Loading and Unloading Wool

When it comes to handling wool, safety should always be the top priority. Whether you're loading or unloading, following proper procedures is crucial not only to protect your team but also to safeguard your valuable wool assets. At Moses & Son, we are committed to ensuring high safety standards and preventing accidents on-site. To enhance the safety of all drivers and operators, we kindly ask for your cooperation during the loading and unloading of trucks.

Safety Guidelines for Drivers

To help us ensure a smooth and safe operation, please follow these steps when delivering wool bales to our site:

• Notify Us Before Arrival: Give us a call to inform us you're heading in and let us know how many bales you have on your truck.
• Park Safely: Upon arrival, park your truck between the yellow lines, ensuring a safe distance from other vehicles.
• Ask for Assistance: If you’re unfamiliar with our site, don’t hesitate to ask one of our staff members for assistance.

On-Site Safety Measures

To ensure everyone's safety while on-site, we recommend the following:

• Wear Hi-Vis Gear: Wear a high-visibility shirt or vest at all times while on-site.
• Follow Directions: Always follow the directions of the forklift operator when driving into the unloading area.
• Hand Over Paperwork: Provide the Classer Specie to the forklift operator before unloading begins.
• Inspect the Load: The forklift operator will inspect your load for any “in transit movement” or instability. If the load is unstable, the forklift will straighten it before any straps are released.

Unloading Procedures

While unloading is in progress, it's essential to adhere to these guidelines for maximum safety:

• Stay in Safety Zones: Drivers should remain in the Designated Safety Zones or in their cabs while unloading is taking place.
• Communicate with the Forklift Operator: Speak with the forklift operator when there is a need to shift curtains, bars, gates, or inspect the load.
• Wait for the Forklift to Stop: Do not enter the unloading area until the forklift has come to a complete stop with the handbrake applied, or the forklift has moved at least 3 metres away (safety exclusion zone).
• Do Not Cross the Truck: Drivers must not close the curtains on the opposite side of the truck while unloading is happening. The forklift operator will stop unloading if this occurs.
• Follow Site Traffic Rules: Drivers must adhere to site traffic plans and use pedestrian walkways when moving around the site.
• Post-Unloading: Once the forklift operator confirms unloading is complete, you will be advised when it's safe to roll up straps and depart from the area.

General Wool Handling Safety Tips

In addition to the specific guidelines for drivers, here are some key safety practices to keep in mind when managing the loading and unloading process of wool:

1. Always Wear Appropriate Safety Gear

All workers involved in loading and unloading must wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE), including high-visibility clothing, steel-toed boots, and gloves. This gear is essential to preventing injuries and ensuring a safe working environment.

2. Use the Right Equipment

Ensure proper equipment—such as wool trolleys, wool presses, and forklifts—is used and regularly inspected. Faulty equipment can lead to serious accidents, which are preventable through routine checks.

3. Regular Safety Checks

Routine inspections of both equipment and the work environment are crucial. These checks help identify potential hazards early, ensuring a safe space for workers and wool.

4. Proper Bale Stacking

Ensure that wool bales are stacked correctly to avoid any risk of collapse. Secure bales with appropriate tools like bale fasteners to ensure stability, protecting both workers and the wool.

5. Well-Defined Loading and Unloading Areas

Loading and unloading zones should be well-lit, free of clutter, and clearly marked. Signage and restricted access for unauthorised personnel should be in place to prevent accidents.

Stay safe

Following these safety guidelines will help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that wool is handled efficiently and safely at Moses & Son. Whether you're delivering wool or operating on-site, adhering to these safety protocols is vital for both personal and operational safety.