Hazards/Risks
Moving vehicles are a significant hazard to workers and pedestrians, and are difficult to avoid in automotive workshops.
Workers may not be competent in the operation of or familiar with the controls of all the different vehicles they are asked to drive or move around the workplace.
Driving onto or off hoists can also present risks.
Safety Solutions
1. Designate pedestrian exclusion zones and walkways.
2. Fix mirrors at blind corners and other areas to aid visibility.
3. Use a person to direct reversing vehicles – this person should be in visual contact with the driver at all times and wear high-visibility clothing.
4. Keep non-essential workers away from reversing areas.
5. Ensure reversing areas are well lit and clearly marked with signs or line markings.
6. Ensure workers have appropriate drivers’ licences (full or provisional).
7. Train workers in different vehicle controls and operation, and in driving on/off hoists.
8. Clearly mark exclusion zones with physical barriers (e.g. chains or bollards), signs, reflective paint or witches’ hats.
9. Designate a safety zone for the delivery driver – they should be seen by the forklift operator at all times when their vehicle is being loaded or unloaded.
10. Introduce clear and effective communication systems between the forklift operator and the driver (e.g. hand signals or two-way radios).
11. Provide ways to warn pedestrians and vehicle drivers that loading/unloading is in progress (e.g. signage, cones, lights, alarms and horns).