Reversing Vehicles: Alarms Are Not Enough

Never assume a driver sees or hears you; always maintain eye contact and stay out of the blind spot.

Why this matters

Large construction vehicles have blind spots where a person is completely invisible to the driver. Even with mirrors and cameras, a worker standing in the wrong place can disappear from view in a second.
Reversing alarms are helpful, but site noise from generators and other machinery can make them hard to hear. Sometimes we get so used to the sound that we stop noticing it entirely.
In a collision between a human and a heavy vehicle, the vehicle always wins. Staying alert and visible is the only way to ensure you go home safely today.

Talking points

Always stand where you can see the driver’s face in their side mirror; if you cannot see their eyes, they cannot see you.
Never cross behind a vehicle if the engine is running or the reverse lights are on.
Use a trained Spotter or Banksman for all reversing maneuvers in tight or busy areas.
If you are the Spotter, never stand directly behind the vehicle; stay to the side where the driver can see you.
Stop work immediately if you lose sight of the driver or if the Spotter disappears from your view.
Keep your High-Visibility vest clean and fastened so it reflects light effectively.
Keep a safe distance of at least two meters from any moving plant or vehicle.

Ask the crew

Where is the safest place to stand when a truck is reversing near your work area?
What should you do if you need to walk behind a vehicle that is idling?
What is the hand signal we use to tell a driver to stop immediately?

Download the PDF with attendance sheet

More vehicles & plant talks

Roadworks Safety: Staying Safe Around Live Traffic Forklift Safety: Balance and Blind Spots Plant Inspections: Checking Before You Start Vehicle vs. Pedestrian: Stay Visible, Stay Alive

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