SAFETY MATTERS

Going backwards must be managed too

Reversing is one of those slow speed manoeuvres that crop up time and time again in vehicles-atwork incident statistics. Reversing and slow speed manoeuvre incidents happen because vehicles all too often engage in multiple or lengthy vehicular movements that could have been avoided if yard managers and drivers gave consideration to the tasks that commonly occur at a premises. The driver should think about putting the vehicle in the required position for the safest and most efficient manoeuvre. Drivers need to think about where the manoeuvre should start and finish to minimise risk and undue complication. By simply doing this the amount of reversing manoeuvres can be greatly reduced, and therefore the risk of something bad happening will also be greatly reduced. In summary, reversing is a high-risk vehicle manoeuvre, and in order to reduce risks drivers should be given instructions on the issues outlined below.

REVERSING VEHICLES KEY POINTS If responsible for managing the safety of vehicle operations one should control the risks inherent in reversing by: n implementing a reversing policy for the organisation n eliminating reversing, wherever possible. This can be done, for example, by laying out a one-way system if the premises allows for this.

If this can’t be done, it might be possible to set up designated reversing areas, which should be marked as such. All non-essential personnel should then be excluded from such areas. n minimising it when it can’t be eliminated – both the amount of reversing and distances n using reversing aids – reversing cameras, mirrors, sensor alarms n Installing stop blocks or buffers to prevent vehicles reversing onto people/structures n Adopting a “reverse in – drive out” policy for parking of all vehicles using trained reversing assistants or signallers.

When using reversing assistants, operators should make sure that:

n only trained reversing assistants are used to help reverse a vehicle, and both driver and assistant are trained in the use of hand signals. n all reversing assistants are provided with clear instructions on where to stand when giving direction to the driver to make sure the driver can see them. Similarly, reversing assistants must be able to see the driver in the mirror at all times.

SOME SIMPLE DRIVER TIPS FOR SAFE REVERSING AND MANOEUVRING YOUR VEHICLE Before setting off, make sure vehicle mirrors are clean and adjusted, reversing lights and siren are working, reversing cameras, where fitted, are working and no items are obscuring vision. On arrival and before reversing: STOP AND THINK! Can reversing be avoided? If not: n Try to reduce the length of reversing as much as possible. n Observe surroundings, and avoid blindside reversing, if possible. n No person should be in between the rear or sides of the vehicle and fixed objects such as walls, lamp posts or cars. n Walk around the vehicle to look for obstacles or hazards if safe to do so. n Ask questions. If possible, ask for help, but make sure reversing assistants are trained and remain in a safe area and in view at all times. n Think and plan the path you will be taking when you are reversing. Where you are going to start and where you will finish. n Check again that all safety features, such as reversing cameras and mirrors, are correctly positioned and that they are working properly. n Turn your head to view everything around you, use mirrors, check both sides before reversing and continue to do so throughout the procedure. n When safe to do so, reverse as planned. n If there is any doubt at all, STOP, GET

OUT and CHECK AGAIN. n Reverse slowly at all times and allow for overhang at the rear of the vehicle. n Do not overcorrect or panic, return to original position if needed. n If you lose sight of someone or catch a glimpse of something not right,

STOP IMMEDIATELY!

It is vitally important to consider the vehicle risks in your workplace, and implement a workplace traffic management plan, part of which should address reversing. For more information on managing vehicle safety go to the Health & Safety Authority’s website at www.vehiclesatwork.ie