A water truck operator died after being struck by a pressurized hose, California

SUMMARY

A water truck operator (the victim) died after being struck by a pressurized water hose. The victim was filling up a water truck with water from a hydrant that was connected to a water tank when the incident occurred. The hose that was used to make the transfer was not of sufficient strength or type to accommodate the water pressure involved. The normal procedure was to first open the valve on the truck followed by the valve on the hydrant. On the day of the incident, the valve on the truck was not opened. The CA/FACE investigator determined that, in order to prevent similar incidents, employers with workers who operate water trucks should:

• Ensure that the machinery and equipment provided to transfer high-pressure water can safely withstand all reasonably anticipated loads.
• Implement policies and procedures as part of a safety program to ensure that unsafe conditions are identified, and safe work practices are followed.

A water truck operator died after being struck by a pressurized hose – California [PDF 903 KB]