Dump Trucks & Haul Trucks

Dump trucks back up constantly, raise heavy beds into the air, and dump on uneven ground. Workers are struck while backing, crushed under raised beds, and electrocuted when beds hit power lines.

• Construction

Types of trucks

• Standard and tandem dump trucks: the bed lifts at the front and dumps out the back.
• End dump trailers: long trailers that lift very high, with a high risk of tipping on uneven ground.
• Side dumps and belly (bottom) dumps: dump out the side or through gates underneath.
• Articulated and rigid haul trucks: off-road trucks on large earthmoving jobs and quarries, with huge blind spots.

Why dump trucks tip over

• Dumping on a side slope or ground that’s softer on one side
• Sticky or frozen material hanging up on one side of the bed
• An uneven load, or a load larger than the truck is rated for
• Tailgate not released, so the load can’t slide out
• Strong side winds on a raised bed or trailer
• Driving forward with the bed raised to “spread” material

Dumping safely

• Dump on firm, level ground. Trucks tip over when dumping on slopes, soft ground or with sticky loads that hang up on one side.
• Look up before raising the bed. Stay well clear of overhead power lines.
• Keep people clear of the tailgate and dump area.
• Lower the bed fully before moving. Don’t drive with the bed up.
• Release the tailgate before raising, using controls that keep you in the clear.
• If the load hangs up, lower the bed and fix the problem. Don’t rock the truck back and forth with the bed raised.
• Stay in the cab with the seatbelt on while dumping, so you’re protected if the truck tips.
• Stay back from the edges of fills, pits and stockpiles. Use a berm or wheel stop as a guide.

Tarps and climbing

Drivers fall climbing onto loads and bed rails to pull tarps. Use automatic or crank tarp systems from the ground, and use three points of contact on the ladder. Never walk on a load. See Commercial Trucks for more on loads and securement.

Working under a raised bed

Backing

• Trucks with an obstructed rear view need a working backup alarm, or a spotter who signals that it’s safe. See Backing & Spotters.
• Workers on foot stay out of the path and blind spots of backing trucks.

Loading by excavators and loaders

• Drivers stay in the cab during loading (if the cab is protected), or stand clear.
• Loads must not swing over the cab unless the cab has adequate protection.

Pre-trip check

• Body prop present and working
• Hoist controls have a latch so they can’t be bumped on
• Hydraulic hoses and cylinder not leaking
• Tailgate latches and release work
• Brakes, tires, lights, mirrors and backup alarm working
• “Bed up” warning light or buzzer working (if equipped)

Drivers of dump trucks over 26,000 pounds generally need a commercial driver’s license and must follow DOT rules on public roads. See DOT Rules for Work Trucks.

Last updated: October 1, 2026