Struck-By Precautions - Motor Vehicles

Workers must observe vehicle safety practices at construction sites to limit worker exposure to struckby hazards such as struck-by swinging backhoes, struck-by falling or overturning vehicles, and struck-by trucks or cars. To avoid these types of hazards, workers should do the following:

• Wear seat belts when provided.
• Check vehicles before each shift to assure that all parts and accessories are in safe operating condition.
• Do not drive a vehicle in reverse gear with an obstructed rear view unless it has an audible reverse alarm, or another worker signals that it is safe.
• Set parking brakes when vehicles and equipment are parked, and chock the wheels if they are on an incline.
• All vehicles must have adequate braking systems and other safety devices.
• Use traffic signs, barricades, or flaggers when construction takes place near public roadways.
• Workers must be highly visible in all levels of light. Warning clothing, such as red or orange vests, are required. If worn for night work, warning clothing must be made of reflective material.

When working on or near any construction zone, always observe the following safety guidelines:

• Wear high-visibility reflective clothing.
• Do not put yourself at risk of being struck by a vehicle, and do not get caught in a situation where there's no escape route.
• Do not direct traffic unless you are the flagger.
  • Flaggers and other workers on foot are at greater risk of exposure to being struck; therefore, they must be visible by both motorists and equipment operators.
• Check that necessary warning signs are posted.
• Never cross the path of a vehicle traveling in reverse.
  • If the equipment doesn't have a reverse signal alarm loud enough to be heard against the surrounding noise level, the employer must designate a worker to signal when it's safe to back up.
• Follow "Exit" and "Entry" worksite traffic plans.

To learn more about Focus Four Safety visit our Construction Focus Four Safety Online Training web page.