Traffic Management

Managing traffic at a construction workplace is an important part of minimising the risks to health and safety. Vehicles including powered mobile plant moving in and around a workplace, reversing, loading and unloading are often linked with death and injuries to workers and members of the public.

On the 6^th of May 2016, a bobcat collided with a worker in the suburb of Grovedale. The worker in his late 20’s died on scene. News of this incident has reverberated through the local and wider community. The enormous grief an accident such as this causes families, friends and colleagues, is truly unimaginable. The primary goal of workplace health and safety is to keep people safe at work, so they can return home to their loved ones at the end of single every day.

To minimise the likelihood of interactions between people, plant and vehicles in the workplace, it is essential that traffic management is addressed as part of the risk mitigation processes. In order to effectively manage this risk, the following may be appropriate:

• Development of a traffic management plan;
• Site Specific risk assessments for the use of mobile plant;
• Utilising dedicated spotters and/or exclusion zones;
• Effective communication systems;
• Verification of worker competency with equipment;
• Refresher training;
• Ensure all workers on site are aware of and understand the required work methods and controls;
• Development of Safety Management Systems;
• Continually monitor and review critical ‘high risk’ work areas and activities; and
• Rescheduling work, to minimise interaction.

Is your organisation effectively managing the risks associated with site traffic?

With a wealth of experience, our compassionate consultants can develop the most practicable solution for your organisation. If you would like more information or assistance, call us today to speak to one of our experienced, SIA Approved consultants: 1300 123 647 or email safety@safetyzone.net.au.