BE PREPARED
Being prepared for the dangers of the recovery industry begins well before arriving at a scene. Proper work attire, vehicle readiness and a clear head is essential for both operator safety and customer interaction.
Complete preparedness can be the greatest tool for an operator, while failing to be ready for the day’s difficulties can be their greatest detriment. WreckMaster recommends remembering the 5P’s during your daily preparation:
CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT
Readying your appearance for the day must go further than equipping your company’s uniform and remembering your safety equipment – uniforms should be cleaned regularly, and equipment inspected to ensure it is suitable for use to keep you safe.
CLEAN UNIFORM
An unsightly and unkempt uniform can be off-putting for customers and reflect poorly on your company. Towing can be dirty work, but that’s no excuse for starting your day with a clean, well kept uniform, even it is just a pair of coveralls. Additionally, loose or baggy clothing can be a hazard when operating equipment. Be sure that your clothing fits and is as presentable as possible at all times. As an operator, you are the face of your company. Be presentable and make a good first impression.
INCLUDE IN A GO-BAG
WreckMaster recommends always carrying a go-bag in your truck while on shift. This bag should contain:
- An extra uniform / spare shirt
- Extra socks
- Extra pair of work gloves
- Seasonal clothing (rain and snow suitable wear)
- Pens
- Paperwork
- First Aid
- Prescriptions (Medications and Glasses)
- Spare phone charger
SAFETY & PPE EQUIPMENT
In addition to a company uniform, WreckMaster recommends the following personal protection as a minimum for every operator:
- A Safety Vest to increase your visibility to drivers and other individuals while on scene.
- A set of Rubber Soled Safety Boots to protect your feet from falling equipment and prevent slips and falls.
- Work Gloves to prevent cuts and burns while keeping hazardous fluids and materials off your hands.
- A Safety Helmet / Hard Hat, ideally with a chin strap, to deflect debris and protect your head from falling objects.
- Protective Eyewear to keep vision clear and protect your eyes form debris.
Additionally, WreckMaster recommends carrying the following items with you:
- Cell phone
- Two pens
- Watch
- Company credit card
- Calculator
- Association crest
- Company crest
- Business cards
- Drivers license
- Pocket knife/multi tool
DOT & MUTCD REQUIREMENTS
Different variations of high visibility attire are required depending on where you are operating. This is not only a WreckMaster recommendation, this is required by law. In both Canada and the USA, transportation authorities enforce strict regulations for individuals who work roadside. This includes towing operators, regardless of the type of job.
KEEP A CLEAR HEAD
Keeping a clear head is essential when providing quality customer service and managing risks while on scene. Maintaining complete focus and attention to the task at hand will not only keep you and those around you safe, it can save your life. WreckMaster recommends remembering the following phrase:
While it is extremely difficult to “leave your problems at the door,” feelings of grief, anger and anxiety can create an unsafe working environment. If your emotions are getting the best of you, there is no shame is admitting you are unfit for work a scene. Pride is never more important than safety.
Finally, the most important step in keeping a clear head is to maintain zero tolerance. This applies to alcohol, recreational drugs or any medication that can impact how efficiently you operate your truck and equipment.
ONE STEP AT A TIME
In addition to emotional distress, multitasking and attempting to do too much at once can lead to important actions being overlooked or forgotten. To ensure you do not lose focus, approach your recovery one step at a time. Be sure to double check everything before moving on to the next step.
WreckMaster recommends adhering to a strict, pre-designed routine for every technique and to not deferring from it. This will keep you forgetting any crucial steps while facing distractions on scene.