Control Measures That Can Reduce The Risk Of Accidents From Reversing Vehicles

Control measures that can reduce the risk of accidents from reversing vehicles:

• Avoidance of reversing by implementing one-way traffic systems.

• Segregation of pedestrians and vehicles or the provision of refuge areas.

• Good vehicle selection so that drivers have adequate visibility.

• Provision of audible reversing alarms and flashing beacons.

• Provision of mirrors at blind spots to see approaching pedestrians.

• Use of high-visibility clothing.

• Ensuring that the area is well lit.

• Provision of banksmen (see later).

• Training for drivers and pedestrians working in the area.

All control measures should also be maintained in good order. This may require routine inspection regimes, cleaning regimes and repair/replacement as necessary.

It will usually be necessary to develop safe systems of work for vehicle operations. These safe systems should identify the site procedures and rules that must be followed.

A banksman (also known as a reversing assistant) should be used to assist a driver with reversing and awkward manoeuvring operations where the driver cannot always fully see what they are in control of. A driver must always use their own judgement, and should only follow instructions from a properly trained banksman.

Banksmen may be used to ensure that vehicle manoeuvres in the vicinity of pedestrians are carried out safely.

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