RA-HS45 Coupling and Uncoupling Vehicles and Towing
| File Reference : | RA-HS45 Coupling and Uncoupling Vehicles and Towing |
This example risk assessment has been prepared using the
F-HS20 General Risk Assessment form template - a purpose-built template designed to focus entirely on what matters: identifying hazards, rating risk and recording controls, without any unnecessary fields getting in the way.
The file is supplied in fully editable MS Word format and can be easily customised and saved to Google Docs format if required. The document uses pre-defined style formatting throughout with styles to match the risk-ratings which are input using select boxes pre-populated with all possible risk ratings. All text is in Calibri font for improved readability.
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Coupling, Uncoupling and Towing Risk Assessment
This fully completed coupling, uncoupling and towing risk assessment example has been prepared by a qualified health and safety professional. It covers a typical range of hazards, risks and associated control measures for all operations involving coupling and uncoupling of trailers, towed equipment and attachments to towing vehicles and commercial vehicles and can be used as a starting point when developing your own risk assessment documentation.
What Does This Coupling, Uncoupling and Towing Risk Assessment Cover?
This risk assessment identifies the key hazards associated with coupling, uncoupling and towing including;
- Crush injury during coupling — operative trapped between tractor or vehicle and trailer during coupling manoeuvres causing fatal crush injuries
- Trailer runaway — uncoupled trailer rolling away on a gradient causing collision with persons or vehicles
- Inadequate brake and lighting connections — coupling without properly connecting or testing trailer brakes or breakaway cable creating uncontrolled trailer on road
- Manual handling during coupling operations — lifting of heavy drawbar connections, trailer legs and electrical cables causing musculoskeletal injury
Each hazard includes an inherent risk rating ranging from Moderate to Substantial, and a comprehensive listing of applicable control measures covering areas such as;
- Driver and banksman in communication during all coupling; no person between vehicle and trailer during reversing
- Engine stopped and park brake applied before anyone goes between vehicle and trailer
- Trailer parking brake applied and chocked on gradients before uncoupling; trailer legs fully extended
- Post-coupling check before every departure: kingpin, safety chain, breakaway cable, brakes, lighting and tyres
- Brake test before leaving yard; all operatives trained in safe coupling procedures
A residual risk rating is then assigned to each hazard, demonstrating how effective risk management reduces overall risk to a tolerable level.
A Professional, Easy-to-Use Risk Assessment Template
This document uses colour-coded header styles matched to risk ratings, making it quick to read and easy to communicate during toolbox talks and worker training. A built-in risk rating matrix supports consistent evaluation of likelihood and consequence, and hazard pictograms using internationally recognised ISO warning symbols are included alongside relevant hazard entries — improving clarity and helping to highlight risks and mandatory controls.
The result is a completed risk assessment that looks professional, reads clearly, and demonstrates a structured and effective approach to risk management.
Who Is This Risk Assessment Template Suitable For?
This coupling, uncoupling and towing risk assessment template is suitable for health and safety advisers, transport managers, fleet supervisors and any employer with a duty to assess risks associated with trailer coupling and towing operations. It can be implemented as a standalone document or as part of a broader occupational health and safety management system aligned with ISO 45001.
Note: This example risk assessment is supplied for use as guidance only and should be reviewed and completed by a competent person.