When to Call for Assistance

U.S. Fed. DOT and MUTCD Standards requires traffic control devices be implemented any time a driving portion of a roadway is obstructed due to work conditions.

For new light-duty operators, it can difficult to determine when assistance should be called during a difficult job. Many operators may feel a sense that they need to impress their employers by being independent or may not want to admit they cannot handle the job themselves. Another reason an operator may not want to call for assistance is due to a time limit provided by an individual on scene. Do not let someone else’s schedule dictate your safety.

An operator should always know the limitations of both their own skills. WreckMaster recommends calling for assistance any time that you are not completely confident that you can tackle the job alone. When operators attempt techniques they are not confident will work, they not only endanger themselves, but also other individuals on scene as well the casualty and their own vehicle.

Operators should also call for assistance if their equipment is not capable of completing the required job. It is every operator’s responsibility to know the limitations of their equipment. If equipment capabilities are not enough to complete the job, the operator should call in an additional truck or equipment. Damaged equipment can become expensive and dangerous to those around it. Not knowing your equipment’s limits is never an excuse for a failure.