Norfolk health & safety consultants Foley and Baugh help plan traffic systems on premises and sites where pedestrians and vehicles frequently coincide.
Forklifts moving pallets, delivery vans arriving at the loading bay and employees walking between buildings are all familiar sights in many workplaces. But when pedestrians and vehicles share the same space, even an ordinary working day can present some serious risks.
Collisions involving workplace vehicles can cause life-changing injuries, so it’s important not to rely on drivers and pedestrians simply looking out for one another. Good traffic management starts with planning how people and vehicles will move around the site.
Where reasonably practicable, pedestrians and vehicles should have separate routes. Clearly marked walkways, suitable barriers and designated crossing points can help reduce the chances of someone stepping into the path of a moving vehicle. Routes should also be kept clear, with sufficient space for vehicles to manoeuvre safely.
Visibility is another important consideration. Blind corners, poorly lit areas, stacked materials and parked vehicles can all obstruct someone’s view. Mirrors, suitable lighting, warning systems and carefully planned routes may help address these problems, depending on the workplace and its risks.
Employers should also consider how deliveries are managed. Is there a designated area for unloading? Do visiting drivers understand the site rules? Are pedestrians kept away from reversing vehicles? These questions are particularly important at busy sites where several activities take place at once.
Training matters, too. Vehicle operators need appropriate competence for the equipment they use, while employees should understand traffic routes, exclusion zones and the importance of following site procedures. Contractors and delivery drivers must also receive the information they need to move around safely.
It’s worth paying attention to near misses. If a pedestrian has to jump out of the way of a forklift, don’t dismiss it just because nobody was hurt. It could be a warning that routes, visibility or working arrangements need to change.
At Norfolk based Foley & Baugh, we help businesses identify workplace hazards and develop practical ways to manage them. Reviewing vehicle movements and pedestrian safety can be an important part of a wider risk assessment.
Whether you operate a warehouse, factory, construction site or distribution business, a well-planned traffic system can help prevent avoidable accidents and give everyone greater confidence when moving around the workplace.
Contact us today on 01493 659026 or email hello@foleyandbaugh.co.uk
