Mechanics hazard alert
A recent Washington State fatality involving a heavy equipment mechanic is a reminder to all who work on large vehicles in the trucking industry. Mechanics hazard alert (90 KB)
TIRES
Trucking Injury Reduction Emphasis
TIRES is a research project developed by the SHARP program at the Washington Department of Labor & Industries. SHARP’s research shows that trucking has some of the highest claims rates and costs in the State of Washington. Discussion with industry and labor groups revealed a desire to improve these rates. Our combined goal is to decrease the number of work-related injuries in trucking by targeting the most common injury types for prevention activities.
The Injuries
The TIRES Initiative is focusing on the four most common injury types:
- Slips, Trips, Falls
- Strains & Sprains (Musculoskeletal disorders)
- Getting Struck By or Against an Object
How It Works
The TIRES research team is working with industry leaders, safety and health professionals, employers, drivers, warehouse and dock workers, and many others to develop educational materials that identify hazards and provide low-cost, simple solutions to prevent injuries in the trucking industry. We will also be visiting worksites to identify best practices and pilot test new ideas aimed at reducing the target injuries. This work is paid for by a grant from the CDC/NIOSH and the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
TIRES stakeholders include:
- Washington Trucking Associations (WTA)
- Approach Management
- Washington Refuse and Recycling Association (WRRA)
- Teamsters Local #252
- Bates Technical College, Truck Driving School
- Individual trucking employers
- Individual owner operators
- Washington State Patrol, Commercial Motor Vehicle Division

