HSE guidance – fatal accidents while working on incorrectly supported vehicles

01 July 2022

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a motor vehicle repair bulletin relating to fatal accidents while working on incorrectly supported vehicles, the text of which we set out below.  The HSE is aware of at least 8 fatal accidents since 2019, due to work being carried out on incorrectly supported vehicles or cabs.

The bulletin states:

Never work beneath a vehicle that is only supported on jacks:

• Use axle stands that are in good condition and inspected every year.
• Use stands on firm, level ground and securely located under a strong point on the vehicle.
• Securely chock wheels remaining on the ground.
• Do not exceed the rated capacity of the stand.

Never work beneath a cab or tipping trailer unless it is propped:

• Always prop cabs, trailers etc that could drop under their own weight.
• The prop should be locked in position before gaining access.
• If there is no prop fitted, or if one is fitted but you are unsure it will be effective, provide your own.

Never crawl beneath a vehicle fitted with air suspension unless it is properly supported:

• Prevent movement of air suspension, either by using suitably rated props or stands to prevent the chassis lowering or by deflating the system.
• Don’t tamper with the ride height for the purpose of recovery or repair.

Further information is available in the HSE publication Working safely under motor vehicles being repaired (INDG434) which you can find here.

You can also find out more in the HSE’s safety alert (issued May 2020) about air suspension systems on vehicles here.

Please contact our regulatory team if you need any advice on 01254 828300.  Find out more about the team and what they do here.