LANDSCAPE ONTARIO – WORKPLACE SAFETY TAILGATE TALKS
© 2026, WSPS.CA 17
BACKING UP
?
How can you communicate with your co-worker(s) when
backing up a vehicle?
!
Effective communication and alertness can reduce the
risks vehicles and equipment backing up and reduce related
deaths and injuries.
Prevention Points
Some other preventive measures involve planning the task,
controlling traffic and training all workers (especially workers
on foot). Consider these prevention points:
Review the General Health & Safety Best Practices section
on page 11 before performing any task.
If possible, try to plan a drive in and drive so that backing
up is avoided as much as possible.
Before backing up
– walk behind the vehicle first to ensure there are no obstacles
– sound your horn
– back up slowly
– ensure you can see the spotter in your mirror.
Set up barricades and fences around areas where trucks and
equipment operate in efforts to protect workers.
Refer to the company's policy and procedures for further
details, key responsibilities and required actions.
