Reversing is one of the highest hazards faced by users and hirers of cranes, including Counterweight Trucks, Hiabs, and mobile cranes.
To ensure the safety of everyone involved and prevent accidents, it is crucial to adhere to proper guidelines when guiding and spotting these vehicles during reversing operations.
This post will outline the essential steps to follow for safe reversing practices.
A. Communication is Key:
Before any reversing operation, discuss and confirm the travel path and end point with the driver, ensuring there is a "Minimum Approach Distance."
Minimum approach distances give an agreed space between an obstacle and a stopping point.
Clear communication is vital to avoid misunderstandings and reduce the risk of accidents.
The Use of Radios for Enhanced Safety
Consider using radios during reversing operations. Radios enable the driver and spotter to communicate more effectively, freeing up their eyes to monitor other potential hazards.
By using their ears to listen for instructions, the driver can better focus on the vehicle's movement.
Additionally, using radios eliminates the need to teach spotters specialized hand signals, as they can simply call "stop" or other instructions over the radio, streamlining the communication process. Integrating radios into your safety practices can enhance overall safety and efficiency during reversing operations.
B. Hand/Verbal Signals:
Agree on the hand or verbal signals to be used and the spotter's position. Test visibility and the driver's response to your signals in action at the beginning of the operation to ensure smooth communication throughout the process.
C. Use Additional Spotters if Required:
While it is crucial to agree on the number of spotters at the beginning of the operation, do not hesitate to stop the vehicle and ask for extra help if needed.
D. Constantly Check Surroundings:
Before and during the vehicle movement, always check the surroundings for potential obstacles. Being aware of the environment can prevent collisions and other accidents.
E. Maintain Constant Eye or Radio Contact:
The spotter and driver must maintain constant eye or radio contact during the operation. If contact is interrupted, signal the driver to stop immediately.
F. Stay Focused:
Don't become distracted while spotting a moving vehicle. Staying focused on the task at hand is essential for ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the operation.
Staying focused is critical and a common theme in event reports where spotters have become distracted.
G. Never Walk Backwards:
While spotting a moving vehicle, never walk backward. This can lead to falls, trips, or collisions with obstacles that you may not see behind you.
H. Avoid Standing or Walking Directly Behind a Reversing Vehicle:
To minimize the risk of accidents, never stand or walk directly behind a reversing vehicle. Instead, maintain a safe distance and a clear line of sight.
I. Keep Yourself Out of the Path:
Never position yourself between the reversing vehicle and any obstacle. By staying out of the path, you can avoid being crushed or trapped in case the vehicle unexpectedly moves towards the obstacle.
J. Stop the Vehicle if in Doubt or Danger:
If there is any doubt or perceived danger during the reversing operation, signal the driver to stop the vehicle immediately. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to safety.
Safe Operations
By following these essential guidelines for safe reversing practices, crane users and hirers can help reduce the risk of accidents involving Counterweight Trucks, Hiabs, and mobile cranes. Effective communication, proper spotting techniques, and situational awareness are crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone involved in reversing operations.
STOP. As the driver of a vehicle reversing - be prepared to stop. Get out and go and look.
Once, twice or a dozen times if in doubt go look.
Always remember, when in doubt or danger, signal the driver to stop the vehicle and reevaluate the situation.
For great reversing resources check out the Crane Association shop. Worksafe NZ also have some safe reversing and spotting practices and a quick reference guide.