On construction sites, dump trucks are the main equipment for transporting bulk materials such as sand, gravel, and earth. Their efficient loading and unloading capabilities play an indispensable role in the construction process of the site. However, the unloading process contains many risks. If safety and operating regulations are not strictly followed, it is very easy to cause accidents such as rollover, collision, or personal injury. Based on the construction site environment, this article provides a comprehensive and professional dump truck unloading operation guide, aiming to help the construction site improve safety standards and work efficiency.
(1). Select a suitable unloading location
Keep the ground flat and stable: Select a solid and flat unloading area, avoid underground pipelines, soft foundations and slopes (slope ≤ 5°). The unloading area should be flat concrete, compacted soil or gravel ground, avoid weak or tilted ground to reduce the risk of overturning.
Clear surrounding obstacles and high-altitude hidden dangers: Ensure that there are no obstacles such as overhead cables and poles in the unloading area to avoid collision or electric shock risks.
(2). Define a safety buffer zone
Set up obvious isolation signs and warning signs around the unloading area to keep non-operating personnel and other vehicles out. Only necessary personnel are allowed to enter the area. Alternatively, a 5-meter radius warning zone can be set up, and reflective cones and "unloading operation" warning signs can be placed. Flashing lights must be equipped at night.
(3). Equipment status and preliminary inspection
Check the tire pressure, brake system, lighting and signal light status. The tire pressure must meet the load standard to ensure controllability and visibility during operation. Test the hydraulic system pressure stability by lifting the vehicle with no load (hold for 3 seconds).
Check the hydraulic system and vehicle compartment status to ensure there is no leakage or abnormal sound, and the tailgate can be opened and closed smoothly. Check the hydraulic oil level and the sealing of the lifting system pipeline.
(1). Accurate positioning and straightening of the vehicle body
Drive the truck into the unloading area. The vehicle must be straightened and aligned to avoid forming an angle to improve unloading stability.
(2) Slowly lift the car body and unlock the tailgate first.
First, make sure the tailgate is fully unlocked to avoid material jamming or accidents when dumping.
When lifting the car body, it should be raised slowly and evenly. It is strictly forbidden to lift it quickly, which will cause the material to fall down in a concentrated manner and increase the risk of rollover.
(3) Control the unloading rhythm to avoid sudden displacement.
When unloading heavy objects, it is necessary to control the material to fall evenly to prevent concentrated unloading on one side, which will cause the center of gravity to shift and induce rollover.
Especially in complex terrain such as slopes and slopes, be sure to operate with extreme caution.
(4) After unloading, completely close the tailgate and level the car body.
After unloading, wait until the car body is completely level before closing the tailgate to ensure that the material does not remain or fall, and to avoid secondary damage.
step |
Key points of operation |
Safety indicators |
1. Positioning |
The rear of the vehicle is 2-3 meters away from the unloading point, and the vehicle body is kept level (the slope meter shows≤2°) |
Handbrake + wedge-shaped block double insurance |
2. Lifting |
Maintain the engine speed at 1500 rpm and raise the angle in stages (15°→25°→maximum angle). |
Single lifting time≥8 seconds |
3. Unloading |
Granular materials are unloaded in sections by opening the rear door, and large pieces are unloaded by inching |
Material sliding speed≤1m/s |
4. Reset |
The carriage is completely lowered until the locking pin is in place, and the hydraulic valve returns to the middle position with a delay of 3 seconds |
Pressure gauge zero confirmation |
(1). Protective equipment and personnel training
Ensure that operators wear safety helmets, safety shoes, reflective vests, etc., and undergo professional training to be familiar with the unloading process and emergency operation plan.
(2). On-site command control and communication and cooperation
Equip with full-time command personnel (such as ground commanders or "spotters") to guide drivers in the unloading direction and rhythm in real time to reduce the risk of "blind spots".
(3). Good on-site lighting
At night or when light is insufficient, sufficient lighting must be provided to ensure that drivers can clearly observe the unloading area and other obstacles.
(1). Application solutions for uneven ground
If the ground is slightly tilted, it is recommended to use equipment such as "live bottom trailers" to unload through conveyor belts without lifting the trailer, which is less likely to overturn.
(2). Risk control in high-risk environments
For hazardous materials or unstable loads, relevant regulations should be strictly followed, such as signs, loading documents, vehicle identification, etc., to avoid accidents caused by illegal operations.
(3). Working in narrow areas
Preferably use a side-dump truck, and the lateral space must be ≥1.5 times the width of the vehicle compartment.
(4). Construction in the rainy season
Lay steel plates to enhance the bearing capacity of the ground (10mm thick checkered steel plates are recommended).
Clean and maintain the truck compartment, tailgate, and hydraulic system to avoid material residues that may cause equipment blockage.
Regularly maintain hydraulic pipes, hinges, lubrication pins and other components to ensure long-term stability and reliability.
Check the U-bolt tightening torque (≥450N•m) daily and lubricate the lifting cylinder pin (lithium-based grease NLGI grade 2).
Dump trucks are the main tool for efficient material transportation and unloading at construction sites, but the unloading process is a high-risk period for accidents. Only through a systematic approach encompassing preliminary preparation, standardized operations, personnel training, and on-site management can safe, efficient, and professional unloading operations be achieved. We hope this guide will help our readers proactively prevent potential problems and improve work quality on the jobsite.
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