Guide To Safe & Cost-Effective Deliveries
At Lofts, we prioritise safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in our deliveries, which requires a collaborative effort from our team and yours. By preparing for deliveries, communicating effectively with our team, and taking the proper precautions, we can significantly reduce the risk of damage, injury, and unnecessary costs. Our drivers carefully assess each site and will work with you to provide safe and successful delivery, but they may refuse to tip if conditions are deemed unsafe.
This guide outlines some essential elements to consider when receiving a delivery. We encourage you to circulate this to your team and contact us for further clarification.
Tight Access
Ensure the access route is suitable for heavy vehicles. Our fleet consists of both cab-over and long-nose tandems as well as truck and trailers. When ordering truck and trailers in particular, check for ample turning and maneuvering room. For any access concerns, contact our Transport team with plenty of notice to discuss alternatives and prevent costly delays like trucks returning to the quarry or having to wait on site.
CAB-OVER
LONG-NOSE
Spotters
Spotters are mandatory in hazardous areas that include trenches or overhead hazards like power lines. Spotters should always wear hi-vis, and a “fall zone” should be established around the truck and maintained for the safety of everyone on site. Communication is crucial and should be used to ensure our drivers are tipping safely. Exclusion zones should also be set up where required for the safety of other personnel.
Spreading
Where spreading is required, please notify us in advance so we can assign the drivers who are most comfortable and capable of performing this task. While we aim to accommodate spreading requests, not all drivers are comfortable or capable of doing so. Always consider the site conditions before requesting spreading and have an alternative plan ready in case the assigned driver cannot spread the material for you.
Overhead Hazards
Overhead hazards can be extremely dangerous and may restrict deliveries. Power lines can also be extremely dangerous and can cause damage and fatal injuries. According to government regulations, trucks should maintain a safe 3m distance from power lines and not tip underneath them. Low-hanging branches or obstructions can limit vision and cause damage and injuries. Height clearance should be checked and advised before delivery.
Unattended Deliveries
Deliveries can be made without someone present on site. However, the site should be safely prepared and marked accordingly, and a site contact should be ready to answer the driver’s call if required. Clear instructions should be given to our transport team in advance so that they can be relayed to our drivers.
Weather Affected Sites
Adverse weather conditions can render some sites inaccessible or unsafe. Always check the weather forecast in advance and prepare the site for safe delivery. If unsure, consider rescheduling when there are safer tipping conditions. Some frequent considerations include:
Rain
Rainfall can soften the ground, hindering access and increasing the risk for drivers delivering to the site. Please note that delivery is to the curb. Drivers may enter the site at their discretion, but the site assumes responsibility for any hire time accrued due to vehicle bogging or mud transfer onto the street upon exit.
High Winds:
High winds can cause trucks to tip over. If your site is particularly exposed or windy, consider rescheduling your delivery for another day.
Level Ground
Level ground is essential for safe tipping. Slopes can create an imbalance when raising truck bodies, increasing the risk of rollovers and injuries. Open trenches, ditches, and holes should be marked and barricaded before a truck enters the site.
Traffic Management
If traffic management is required on site, ensure that you advise our Transport team in advance with start and finish times to avoid delays and subsequent hire time charges.