The control of moving vehicles
Traffic management within the workplace
The control of moving vehicles.
Being struck by moving vehicle accounted for 25 fatal injuries to workers in 2020/21, representing 18% of the total number of deaths over the year.
Consistently year on year this is the second cause of fatalities. Many of us only encounter moving vehicles on the highways and keep ourselves safe by following Government advice and applying common knowledge, much of this installed into us from an early age.
But, within a lot of industries, moving plant and vehicles on site come with its own risks.
Preventing contact.
There are many different arrangements that can be considered to minimise the risk of vehicle collisions and contact with other vehicles. The following items are just a few of the consideration’s organisations can adopt:
· Training – Competency is key. Always ensure any person responsible for driving and maintaining vehicles have the necessary qualifications and training to demonstrate competency. You may want to introduce an authorisation system.
· Traffic management – A good traffic management system on site including speed limits, one-way system, and other speed control measures such as ramps.
· Segregation – Cleary marked walkways and physical barriers to ensure pedestrians are segregated from moving vehicles are a good control measure. Support this with signage and physical and visual crossing points.
· Vehicle marshals – Reversing vehicles account for many injuries and fatalities. Having trained vehicle marshals such as a banksman and making sure they are used can reduce risks.
· Driver pre-checks – Conducting regular driver pre checks on plant and vehicles will ensure our equipment is at its best and safe to use for driver and pedestrians.
· Security – It is essential that our sites and any plant and vehicles on them are secure and not accessible to unauthorised personnel. Simple security measures can often be the most effective.
· Visibility – Making sure you are clearly visible to drivers by wearing high visibility clothing will reduce the risk of an injury or fatality.
· Lighting – During hours of limited visibility, the provision of task lighting is important to maintain a level of vision for both vehicle operators and pedestrians.
· Awareness – Being aware of your surroundings is essential. Site based personnel will be familiar but ensure you cover traffic and pedestrians’ arrangements within your induction especially for non-employees.
Need help?
Safety Horizon (South West) have completed many traffic management reviews over the years and can support you in suggesting the right control measures that suit your site. Contact us for more details.
Stay alert and stay safe.
