Empowering People

3 Points of Contact Added to Training

Empowering people is at our core. It goes beyond just teamwork and means giving everyone the tools and confidence to take ownership of their safety every day. In an industry where slippery steps and heavy cargo are part of the job, we address safety directly. That is why we are launching our new Three Points of Contact safety training in January as part of our Fist Bump & Blueprints learning management system.

driver stepping onto truck
3 points of contact

The Bottom Line

Let’s Climb with Confidence

By practicing Three Points of Contact and wearing the right safety toe boots with ankle support, our team stays upright, injury free, and prepared for whatever the day brings. One solid step at a time, we are empowering each other to work smarter and safer.

Stable Moves, Stronger Crews

Think back to the lessons about balance you learned early on. They still apply today. Whether climbing in and out of trucks, trailers, or working around equipment, maintaining three points of contact means keeping two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand securely in place. This simple practice creates strong stability and reduces the risk of slips and falls, especially when surfaces are wet or uneven.

Boots on the Ground

Footwear also plays a critical role in safety. We’re making sure our teams are equipped with safety toe boots that include strong ankle support. These boots are not just about protecting toes from heavy or sharp objects. They also help prevent ankle injuries that can happen on rough terrain or unstable surfaces. Proper ankle support keeps our people steady and ready to respond when conditions change.

Smart Moves Always

We understand the pace of the job can be demanding but rushing leads to unnecessary risk. That is why we encourage everyone to slow down, face inward when climbing, and never jump from equipment. Carrying heavy items with one hand or taking shortcuts may save a few seconds, but they can lead to serious injuries. Thoughtful and deliberate movements keep everyone safer.

3 Points of Contact FAQ

They form a stable triangle of support, preventing slips, falls, and strain. This protects joints and backs and helps reduce injuries.

Every time you climb, descend, mount, or dismount. Whether it’s a ladder, truck, heavy machinery, or any equipment. Keep your center of gravity locked in, stay balanced, and shut down any chance of slips or falls.

Points are your hands and feet on stable surfaces like handrails, steps, or handles. Non-points are things like tires, wheel hubs, or just your toe.

Yes, the 3 points of contact rule is a key OSHA safety guideline. It’s essential for preventing workplace accidents when climbing, balancing, or moving around equipment and machinery.

Failing to use three points of contact can cause incidents resulting in sprains, fractures, back and head injuries, joint damage, lost work time, and even death. They compromise your stability and put dangerous stress on your body.

No, you can’t safely carry items in your hands while maintaining three points of contact on a ladder or equipment. Instead use a tool belt, backpack, or hoist line to keep your hands free for climbing.

Get a Sanitation Quote