Tyres can present hazards to workers and others across their lifecycle, especially when heavy vehicles are integral to business operations. The rise in tyre use and disposal costs has led to an accumulation of old tyres in workplaces, posing risks during activities like fitting, moving, storing, and disposal.
Campaign Focus In the 2021-22 period, WorCover Queensland aims to spotlight tyre safety in various industries, raising awareness of the associated risks and fostering improved industry practices. The goal is to promote more effective controls and enhance compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
Key Usage and Repair Issues
Tyre Filling and Inflation Levels: Over-inflation risk arises from unregulated compressed air supplies. Using a remote tyre filling hose with a pressure gauge during inflation allows safe monitoring from a distance.
Tyre Pyrolysis: This explosive phenomenon occurs when a damaged tyre, affected by power lines, lightning, or fire, goes undetected. Establishing an exclusion zone around the tyre or vehicle is a common risk control.
Hot Works on Rims: Performing hot work (e.g., welding) on a rim with a fitted tyre can be hazardous, leading to tyre bursts during or after the process.
Common Risks and Issues
- Lack of workplace systems for safe tyre storage and handling
- Uncontrolled release of compressed air from split rims
- Sprains and strains during tyre changing tasks
- Insufficient reliance on material handling equipment like foot-controlled hoists
- Ineffective tyre storage practices
- Contact between stored tyres and mobile plant
- Manual handling risks during tyre disposal and potential pollutants from burning.
Resources
Guidance
Code of practice
- Hazardous manual tasks code of practice 2021 (PDF, 1.38 MB)
- Children and young workers code of practice 2006