Skid-steer Loaders – Landscaping Fatality File

Skid-Steer Loader Accident in Landscaping

On September 18, 2023, a fatal accident involving a skid-steer loader occurred during a commercial landscaping project in Vancouver, British Columbia, resulting in the death of a 46-year-old worker, David Thompson. Thompson was operating a skid-steer loader to clear debris and perform grading tasks on a construction site when the incident happened.

According to the investigation, Thompson was maneuvering the loader on uneven terrain when the machine tipped over, trapping him underneath. Despite the prompt arrival of emergency services, Thompson sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation revealed several contributing factors, including the challenging terrain, the lack of a rollover protective structure (ROPS) on the skid-steer loader, and insufficient training on operating the equipment in hazardous conditions. Following this incident, the landscaping company has implemented stricter safety protocols, including the mandatory use of ROPS-equipped machines, comprehensive training programs for all operators, and regular safety audits to ensure compliance with industry standards.

This tragic event underscores the critical need for rigorous safety measures and proper training to prevent similar accidents in the future. Ensuring the use of appropriate equipment and adherence to safety guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of fatal incidents in the landscaping industry.