CPCS Forward Tipping Dumper

Question 1

What is the most common cause of fatal accidents involving forward tipping dumpers on UK construction sites?

Accepted Answer

Overturning

Answer

Overturning is the leading cause of fatalities involving forward tipping dumpers. Contributing factors include travelling too fast, operating on slopes, uneven ground, overloading, and poor visibility. Seatbelts and ROPS (Roll Over Protection Structure) are critical safety features.

Question 2

What must a forward tipping dumper be fitted with to protect the operator in the event of a rollover?

Accepted Answer

A Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) and a seatbelt

Answer

All forward tipping dumpers must be fitted with a ROPS (Roll Over Protection Structure) to maintain a survival space around the operator if the machine overturns. The operator must also wear the seatbelt at all times to remain within the ROPS protection zone.

Question 3

When travelling a loaded forward tipping dumper downhill, what is the correct procedure?

Accepted Answer

Travel in reverse so the load is uphill, in a low gear

Answer

When travelling downhill with a loaded skip, the operator should reverse down so the weight of the load is on the uphill side, using a low gear for engine braking. Driving forwards downhill with a loaded skip raises the centre of gravity on the downhill side, increasing the risk of the machine tipping forward.

Question 4

What should an operator do before tipping a load at a spoil heap or trench edge?

Accepted Answer

Ensure stop blocks are in place and approach cautiously at a safe distance from the edge

Answer

Before tipping, the operator must ensure suitable stop blocks (baulks of timber) are positioned to prevent the machine from going over the edge. The operator should approach slowly, stop against the blocks, apply the brake, then tip the load. Spoil heap and trench edge collapses cause fatalities every year.

Question 5

What is the safe maximum gradient on which a forward tipping dumper should typically operate?

Accepted Answer

As specified by the manufacturer, typically not exceeding 1 in 6 (approximately 16%)

Answer

Forward tipping dumpers should not operate on gradients steeper than those specified by the manufacturer, typically around 1 in 6. Steeper gradients significantly increase the risk of overturning, especially when loaded or turning. Site-specific risk assessments should determine safe operating limits.

CPCS Theory Practice Test

CPCS Theory Practice Test

CPCS Forward Tipping Dumper