There is no DOT requirement that jack stands be used under the front of a trailer that is unhooked during loading and unloading. OSHA has a requirement in their material handling regulation that addresses using jack stands on unhooked trailers (specifically, 1910.178(k)(3) states, “Fixed jacks may be necessary to support a semi-trailer and prevent upending during the loading or unloading when the trailer is not coupled to a tractor”). The company needs to evaluate the risk and decide if upending is a hazard, and if it is, then require the use of jack stands. Typically, what will cause the trailer to become prone to upending is:
- Loading or unloading extremely heavy cargo using a large (and heavy) forklift, and
- Loading or unloading a trailer having a short wheel base with cargo that is heavy.