Enhancing Vehicle Safety

On the farm or in the factory, transport is a major part of daily life, making vehicle safety a top priority no matter what you are doing. When using vehicles you can break down transport activities into distinct areas Safe Stop, Safe Vehicle, Safe Driver, and Safe Site – so that you can better identify the hazards and take proactive steps to manage the risks.

Safe Stop

The concept of Safe Stop shows the importance of proper shutdown procedures for vehicles and machinery. The steps are straightforward but critical:

1. Engage handbrake: Ensure the vehicle or machinery is securely immobilized.
2. Controls in neutral: Prevent unintended movement.
3. Switch off engine (or turn off power): Shut down the engine or power source.
4. Remove key (or lock-off the power supply): Securely store the key or disable the power supply.

Following Safe Stop procedure is essential:

• Before leaving the driver’s seat.
• When anyone approaches the vehicle or machinery.
• Before any maintenance or adjustment tasks.

Safe Vehicle

A Safe Vehicle is one that is well-maintained and suited to the tasks. Consider the following checklist:

• Make sure vehicles are appropriate for the job and equipped with necessary safety features like mirrors for reversing and clear vision in all places.
• Conduct daily inspections, quickly report and fix any faults.
• Regularly maintain braking systems to ensure effectiveness.

Additionally:

• Install roll-over protective structures (ROPS) and seatbelts on vehicles at risk of overturning.
• Protect lift truck (forklift) and loader operators from falling objects.
• Ensure trailers have brakes matched to their loads and speeds.

Safe Driver

The Safe Driver makes sure they are competent, and fit to carry out the task:

• Confirm drivers are medically fit and properly trained.
• Prevent unauthorized individuals from operating vehicles.
• Educate drivers on safe vehicle entry and exit procedures.

Passengers should only be allowed in designated seats that do not hinder the driver’s visibility or access to controls. Mounting or dismounting moving vehicles is strictly banned for safety reasons.

Safe Site

A Safe Site is characterized by organized and secure traffic management:

• Separate vehicle and pedestrian traffic whenever possible.
• Inform visiting drivers about site-specific rules and regulations.
• Minimize the need for reversing by implementing turning circles or one-way systems.
• Maintain well-lit and properly marked traffic routes.
• Ensure silos, bulk dumps and storage areas are away from overhead power lines (OHPLs).

Additional vehicle safety tips include:

• Avoid approaching or walking near reversing vehicles.
• Use audible alarms on vehicles which activate when reversing.
• Provide separate doorways for vehicles and pedestrians in buildings.
• Wear high-visibility clothing to enhance visibility of people to the driver.

By addressing these four key areas—Safe Stop, Safe Vehicle, Safe Driver, and Safe Site—you can significantly improve transport safety.. Regular training, clear procedures, and a commitment to proactive safety measures are essential for protecting everyone involved in transport and vehicle movements.

If you need any advise get in touch or give the HazardCo team a call on 0800 555 339