Backing up Trucks and Equipment Safely
Date Posted: 04/21/2020
The national Safety Council states, that one out of four accidents occur because of bad backing up techniques and procedures. The report also states backing-up accidents account for 500 deaths and 1,500 injuries each year. (2014 study)
Jobsites are extremely busy locations that include large numbers of vehicle and equipment traffic mixed with pedestrians and workers. Backing up equipment and vehicles, as stated above, has the potential to be a dangerous activity. Following safe practices decreases the risks.
Safe Backing Up Practices
Visual Inspection: Take the time to walk around your vehicle and identify potential overhead or underneath hazards.
Identify blind spots: Know the blind spots and other environmental obstructions that are presented when using your mirrors. Always remember to look left and right and out the front when backing up.
Plan ahead: Avoid backing up whenever possible.
Spotter: If you are a spotter, never assume the driver can see you. Always place yourself out of the path of the vehicle and wear high visibility clothing.
Identify clearances: Identify overhead and underneath obstructions (powerlines, trees, trenches)
Watch your speed: Once you have done your walk around, do not delay backing up. Back up slowly to allow potential hazards to move away.
Check your mirrors: Constantly check your mirrors for any approaching obstructions.
Look and listen: While backing up make sure you are looking and listening for any potential hazards.
Remember it is your responsibility to keep yourself and others safe when driving equipment on a jobsite. Always take the time to follow proper procedures and never do anything that you deem unsafe. Taking the time to follow the proper backing up procedures listed above will help decrease the number of jobsite accidents and keep everyone safe.
Questions for Discussion:
Review the attached WAC document with participants
What are the procedures that your company follows when moving and backing up equipment?
Do you have a specific traffic plan in place at your jobsite?
What are some hazards you have encountered when backing up equipment?
Presenter tips:
Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic.
Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your jobsite.
Involve workers by asking questions and getting their input to help drive discussions.
Discuss current company safety procedures that are followed.
