Avoiding
Collisions
(Runovers & Backovers)
Protecting workers from
jobsite vehicles and equipment is nearly half the battle.
How are most roadway construction workers
killed?
Over 40% — nearly half — of the fatalities for
roadway construction workers occur when workers are run over or struck
by moving vehicles, trucks, or equipment. Over half of the fatalities
are caused by construction vehicles and equipment in the work area.
How can you avoid a collision in your work
area?
Make sure you are wearing high-visibility
clothing, including a vest and hard hat.
If working near construction
vehicles and equipment, make sure the operator/ driver knows
where you are located. DO NOT assume he/she can see you.
Do not approach moving equipment. Communicate
with the driver using a radio, hand signals, etc. Only approach the
vehicle once the operator has stopped operations.
Set up a plan or procedure — some call it an
internal traffic control plan — to separate workers from the paths of
vehicles and equipment. Make sure vehicles know where workers are
located, and workers know where equipment is operating.
Use a whistle, air-horn, or other device to warn
fellow workers when they are in danger.
Separate workers from traffic using positive
separation, such as barriers, road closures, shadow vehicles, and buffer
space. Remember, this separation is important for BOTH roadway traffic
and construction vehicles.
Don’t become complacent with your work
environment. Stay alert at all times and in all places. Stop, look, and
listen for possible hazards.
Flaggers and Directing Traffic
Each
year, approximately 20 flaggers are killed and many more are injured.
Flaggers must be especially vigilant to protect against collisions.
Don’t accept an assignment to be a flagger
unless you have been properly trained. You must know where to stand, how
to dress, and how to properly communicate with motorists.
Know what type of clothing you should wear
depending on the speed of traffic, the time of day, and the complexity
of your surroundings.
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Stay focused.
Keep your eyes on oncoming traffic. Make sure
your signals are clear and do not conflict with other traffic control
signals.
Plan a route so you can move quickly to safety
if a motorist does not appear to heed your signals.
Make sure you have a way to quickly warn other
workers when vehicles do not respond to your signals.
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Respect motorists.
Be courteous. Do not respond to abusive drivers.
Notify law enforcement if necessary.
This
material was produced under grant number 46C3-HT31 from the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of
Labor. It does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the
U.S. Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names,
commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S.
Government. The developers have not assumed any part of the
employer’s exclusive responsibility to provide a safe and healthful
work place.
