Part 5: Keeping control of driving activity

Half of all workplace transport injuries happen as a result of someone being hit by a moving vehicle. A third of these happen when the vehicle is reversing. It follows then that assessing and controlling driving activity is the most crucial aspect of any workplace transport risk programme.

Example

A large retail company was fined £150,000 following the death of a customer at one of its stores. A delivery lorry reversing into the delivery area ran over a 77 year-old-lady.

Following a police and local authority investigation by the Council and police, the company was charged under section 3(1) of the Health & Safety at Work Act for failing to ensure the health and safety of persons not in their employment. It was specifically stated that they had not ensured a safe means of work at the loading bay.

The firm pleaded guilty and has since worked with the local authority to develop a safe system, including a separate entrance to its delivery yard, removing the need to reverse in public areas.

Risk management

> Reversing manoeuvres should be kept to a minimum or only carried out in safe areas. One-way systems, clearly defined reversing zones, banksmen, reversing alarms, mirrors and pedestrian control can all help to improve safety

> Check that vehicles are always left properly braked, and secured in designated parking areas when not in use.

> Be aware that loading and unloading of vehicles is the cause of many workplace transport accidents. This should be carried out away from other traffic and pedestrians, on a firm flat surface with brakes applied and the vehicle stabilised if necessary. If not involved in the unloading operation drivers should remain in the cab or should leave the loading bay.

> Check all loads are properly secured so that they will not fall from the vehicle due to sudden braking or inclines, and spread the load evenly to keep it, and the vehicle, stable.

The seriousness of the risks involved means that poor management of workplace transport can result in the enforcement authorities placing Improvement or Prohibition Notices on firms and they are not slow to prosecute when vehicles are involved in workplace accidents.

Consider all of the general points made in this feature to ensure better safety of your workers and people visiting your place of business.

The HSE’s webpages covering workplace transport are a gold mine of information - see link above/right. There are free leaflets and details of other publications together with information on research, videos, case studies and real life examples plus many links to other organisations.