What should a worker avoid doing if they do not understand the placard on a truck?

The best course of action for a worker who does not understand the placard on a truck is to avoid unloading the truck. When a worker is unsure about the information presented on a placard, which often provides critical safety data or identifies the type of materials being transported, it poses a significant risk to their safety and the safety of others.

Unloading a truck without comprehension of the contents can lead to exposure to hazardous materials, accidents, or spills. It is essential to fully understand what is being unloaded to implement the appropriate safety measures. In a situation where safety protocols hinge on the nature of the contents, taking action based on insufficient knowledge can have dire consequences.

Other choices, although they involve interaction with the truck or its contents, do not carry the same immediate risk associated with misunderstanding hazardous materials. Communicating with the driver, while crucial for safety, would ideally occur prior to any actions like unloading or loading. Thus, the focus on avoiding any potentially dangerous action—such as unloading—when there is uncertainty is paramount in maintaining a safe working environment.