Fatality Alert

On February 9th, a log truck driver was fatally injured near Fort St. James.

Our condolences go out to the family, friends and co-workers of the deceased and our sympathies to the injured drivers and everyone else who has been affected by this incident.

The Coroners Service, RCMP, CVSE and WorkSafeBC are investigating. See below for a preliminary description of the incident:

A south bound car was stopped on Highway 27 waiting to turn left. A south bound logging truck stopped behind this car. A second south bound logging truck was not able to stop in time to avoid a collision with the first logging truck.

The resulting collision caused vehicles to enter the north bound lane and an empty north bound logging truck collided with one of the logging trucks and went into the ditch. One of the log truck drivers was fatally injured at the scene and another was seriously injured. A fire occurred after the collision.

The weather conditions at the time of the incident have been described as extremely poor, low visibility and snowing heavily.

This is the 2nd harvesting fatality of 2017. Although the details of this incident are still unknown, review the following safety information:

1. Drive to conditions, especially in the winter. Reduced visibility and slippery road conditions will affect braking distances and steering control.
    
2. Poor visibility can be caused by snow, rain, or fog. Adjust speed accordingly. Give yourself an extra safety buffer and additional distance to stop.
    
3. Mark loads with the appropriate lights and flags. Drive with headlights and taillights on to improve visibility. Check lights regularly and clear off any built up snow and ice. Use four way flashers when travelling slowly or stopped in the lane of travel.
    
4. Maintain mental alertness by taking breaks when necessary. Watch out for mental states that can lead to incidents including fatigue, rushing, complacency and frustration.
    
5. Manage existing hazards but also anticipate what hazards might appear during your work day. Weather, traffic and road conditions will all change throughout the day.
    
6. If conditions are not safe, delay or suspend work until conditions improve.