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Prevent struck by incidents: 3 expert tips to keep workers safe

Struck-by safety inspections begin May 1: 4 tips to prepare

A lift truck operating in reverse strikes an unsuspecting pedestrian, a transport truck backs up to a loading dock and pins a worker against the wall, a pedestrian walking outside in the yard without high visibility clothing is struck by a driver during low light conditions; these are just three examples of incidents involving employees struck by vehicles and mobile equipment that are moving or reversing.

Vehicles or mobile equipment that move materials in the workplace include walkie riders, manual pallet jacks, electric pallet jacks, lift trucks, cranes, and trucks in outside yards, says Norm. Typically, incidents occur because of limited visibility, distraction, loss of control, inadequate separation of pedestrians and mobile equipment, narrow aisles, and lack of training and enforcement.

“A traffic management and pedestrian safety plan can help protect employers and workers from incidents inside and outside of the workplace, by establishing traffic routes and rules, maximizing visibility, adding markings and signage, providing training and enforcement, and more.”

3 steps to prevent struck-by injuries

Norm offers these tips for preventing injuries.

1. Conduct a hazard assessment. When performing the assessment,

  • review incident reports, identify root causes, and look for gaps in your existing program or training.
  • tour the workplace to identify high risk areas where people and mobile equipment are mixing. Take photos.
  • watch traffic flow and how people drive. Are they following policy, procedures and training guidelines?
  • consider visibility and line of sight.
  • meet with internal staff, joint health and safety committee members, and mobile equipment and truck operators. Ask about issues of concern. Is visibility adequate? Are close calls occurring? Are people following safety rules?

2. Identify gaps. "For example, the assessment may identify that floor lines are fading, signs are obscured, housekeeping isn't up to snuff, the workplace culture doesn't support following safe practices, enforcement efforts are lacking, productivity is more valued than safety, and so on."

3. Develop and implement solutions. "For example, if employees are unclear who has the right of way at intersections, use familiar roadway markings - red lights/green lights, stop signs, and crosswalk markings. If PPE is a problem, ensure that equipment operators and pedestrians wear the right PPE, such as fog proof lenses. Consider ergonomic solutions such as line of sight improvements. Clearly communicate your "safety first" culture to all employees and provide additional competency training for supervisors.

How WSPS can help

Consulting

-Our consultants can work with you to control hazards and improve your safety performance. Connect with a consultant today.

Mobile equipment job aids

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Hazard assessment resources

To view a full suite of resources, visit the Motor Vehicle & Powered Equipment resource page.

 

The information in this article is accurate as of its publication date.