The HSA (Health and Safety Authority) of Ireland recently issued a safety alert linked to large tyre inflation dangers. The alert comes after a series of, unfortunately, fatal accidents that took place in 2014.
We have, in previous blog posts, discussed the importance of checking tyres and even focussed on a survey underlining how the majority of fleet managers interviewed were not aware of how frequently fleet vehicle tyres were checked.
The risks related to tyre inflation are due to the large amount of explosive energy present in large tyres. Typically, a commercial vehicle tyre would have 34 tonnes, or more, of outward force acting on it; usually without any consequences as tyres are specifically designed for these kinds of pressure. But if tyres are not inflated correctly, underinflated or damaged, they could fail and explode.
The HSA recommends caution especially when re-inflating a tyre and inflating tyres on an elevated vehicle. Some of the precautionary measures you should adopt include:
• staying outside of what could be the explosion trajectory;
• checking tyres thoroughly for external signs of damage;
• using adequate equipment such as safety shoes and eye protection;
• employing restraining equipment, clampers and inflation cages while inflating tyres.
Workers involved in tyre checking and inflation should be trained on how to carry out these routine operations safely.
For further reference, please consult the official HSA of Ireland website—http://www.hsa.ie/.
