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SOE guide to safe coupling
Page 14
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IN A BID .1.0 cut the growing number of accidents involving trailers, the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) has launched a guide for drivers.
The code of practice, called Coupling or Uncoupling and Parking of Large Goods Vehicle Trailers, has approval from the HSE.
SOE chief executive Tracey Shelley says: "In view of the latest developments relating to corporate killing and the impact of the Corporate Manslaughter Bill, it is most important that all those involved in the management of health and safety within the road transport industry support the continued use of this code of practice."
A recent survey from fifthwheel manufacturer Fontaine revealed that almost 20% of drivers had dropped a trailer at some point in their careers; of those, 25% admitted to more than one incident (CM 2 February).
The guide is available free from the SOE or as a PDF on the HSE's website.
• Contact: SOE, 020 7630 1111; www.hse.gov.uk