SHEQ Learning Alert

LAL-70-1501-GROUP
Risks with 5th Wheel Designs and Coupling
Procedures

Description of Incident / Unacceptable Risk / Point of

Concern
During a recent `MIR` incident investigation involving a motive unit semi-trailer
combination separating on a public road it became apparent that the transport
operation did not recognise that 2 newly delivered prime movers/motive units were
fitted with a different model of 5 th wheel (Jost JSK 40) to that historically fitted (Jost JSK
37). The new 5th wheel model had a different coupling mechanism and operating
procedures, despite being produced by the same 5 th wheel manufacturer.
The driver involved in the incident had followed the coupling procedure for the 5 th
wheel model JSK 37 fitted to the majority of their vehicles. This procedure was not
aligned to the procedure for coupling the new 5 th wheel model JSK 40 fitted to the new
Key Points
vehicle. Minimum Key Actions (by whom)
The incident investigation revealed that similar
to Avoidincidents had occurred
Similar Incidents / with other
transport companies. Unacceptable Risk / Non-Compliance

New equipment was introduced into Establish if different makes and/ or

the Linde fleets by vehicle models of 5th wheels exist within the
manufacturers without full knowledge fleet. If so ensure that the coupling
of management and drivers procedures are aligned to each particular
make and model.
Tighter vehicle specifications and Review current fleets (Managers)
controls are required by Linde when Where possible standardise
purchasing and introducing new (Managers)
vehicles into our business Ensure drivers can identify 5th wheel
type (Managers)
Driver training and education on new
Ensure drivers are trained and
equipment is critical to reduce the risk
competent to operate relevant 5 th
to an acceptable level when operating wheel types (Managers)
vehicles
Review equipment standards
(Managers)
Background Document Information Ensure procedures are inStandards
Key Relevant place for
References
MIR-15-48 introducing
Prime Audience = All Linde and contractor new equipment
VEH-01-07-GROUP- EMOC
(Synergi Case transport operations that use vehicles(Managers)
with 5 th VEH-07-01-GROUP
#104087) wheels. DEL-01-08-GROUP
Author: Tony Williams/ Alastair Hutchinson. DEL-02-09-GROUP
Approved: Andrew Smith
Contact for further information: Alastair
Hutchinson / Jim Watson
THIS DOCUMENT IS INTENDED TO BE DELIVERED VIA `TRACCESS`,
HOWEVER SHOULD August 2015 Page 1
ALSO BE USED ON NOTICEBOARDS AND REVIEWED IN SAFETY MEETINGS
ETC
SHEQ Learning Alert
LAL-70-1501-GROUP FURTHER INFORMATION

Risks with 5th Wheel Designs and Coupling

Procedures
Actions For Managers:
1) Review Current fleets
Review the makes and models of 5 th wheels in use within your contractor and own fleet.
2) Where possible standardise
Where ever possible standardise on one make and model(s) that have the same
operating procedures, this will reduce the risk of coupling mistakes/errors when operating
different 5th wheel types.
3) Ensure drivers can identify 5th wheel type
Ensure drivers can easily identify and recognise the type of 5 th wheel they are operating.
4) Ensure drivers are trained and competent to operate relevant 5 th wheel types
Ensure drivers are fully trained and competent on the coupling procedure for all the 5th
wheel types they may be required to use.
5) Review equipment standards
Whenever possible if new equipment is being ordered or 5 th wheels are being replaced
ensure that the new 5th wheel operating procedure is the same as those already
operating in the fleet.
6) Ensure procedures are in place for introducing new equipment EMOC
Ensure robust procedures are in place when it is decided to introduce a new 5th wheel
design into service.
Comply with standard IMS-04-15-GROUP, Engineering Management of Change.

THIS DOCUMENT IS INTENDED TO BE DELIVERED VIA `TRACCESS`,

HOWEVER SHOULD August 2015 Page 2
ALSO BE USED ON NOTICEBOARDS AND REVIEWED IN SAFETY MEETINGS
ETC