Question

How can you pull the fifth wheel release handle in a way that doesn't put yourself at risk of injury?

A. Bend at the knees, keep your legs and feet clear of the rear tractor wheels, square yourself up with the handle and pull straight out.
B. Pull on the handle with your dominant arm using a zig-zag pattern to loosen the grip.
C. Tuck your legs and feet between the rear tractor wheels to get better leverage.
D. Grasp the handle with both hands, brace your foot against the tires, and pull.

Answer 1

To safely operate a fifth wheel release handle, one should squat down and maintain a clear distance from the tractor wheels, then firmly and straightly pull the handle while maintaining proper posture to avoid injury.

Step-by-step explanation:

To pull the fifth wheel release handle without risking injury, the correct method is option A: Bend at the knees, keep your legs and feet clear of the rear tractor wheels, square yourself up with the handle, and pull straight out. This approach ensures that you maintain good posture, utilize the strength of your legs and core, and avoid placing your limbs in a position where they could be crushed or caught by the moving components of the truck. By pulling straight out, you minimize the risk of a sudden movement that might cause injury. It's also more ergonomically effective at applying force efficiently.