What is workplace transport and safe movement of vehicles?

According to Health and Safety guidance: “ Workplace transport includes any activity involving vehicles used in a workplace.

Vehicles driven on public roads are excluded, except where the vehicle is being loaded or unloaded on a public road adjacent to a workplace. ”

Who is responsible?

It is important to be aware of your own and your employer’s responsibilities when it comes to safety and workplace transport.

Your employer has a legal duty to make sure that your health and safety, and the safety of any contractors and members of the public is protected at all times and you’re not put at risk by the work you do.

You have a responsibility to ensure the safety of yourself and anyone who may be affected by the work you do and to co-operate with your employer on matters of safety.

So, whether you’re driving a lift truck or working at the loading bay, safety must always be your main priority. Awar

Risk Assessments

By law, your employer has a duty to assess the risks posed by moving vehicles in your workplace. This ensures that all known hazards can be recognised and action can be taken to reduce them.

There are five key steps in conducting a risk assessment.

» Identify the hazards

» Find out who is affected

» Evaluate the risks

» Set Priorities and Implement them

» Monitor and review

By following all the steps of a risk assessment in the correct order, you can reduce the risks and promote safety when vehicles are used at work.

Help your employer to identify the risks you face when using or working near workplace

transport. Then, help your employer to reduce and control these risks.

Vehicle Maintenance

Any vehicle that is used in a working environment must be suitable for that purpose.

The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 set the standards for the design and construction of vehicles used on public roads. If vehicles meet these standards, in most cases they will be suitable for use at work too.

All vehicles should be regularly maintained and kept in good clean working order. This ensures that they are mechanically sound and safe to use.

Regular inspections play a vital part in preventative maintenance. The frequency and level of inspections and maintenance will depend on what is used, how often and for what purpose.

Basic Guidelines

» Only carry passengers if there is adequate room and

seating for them

» Have three points of contact with the vehicle at all times

» Wear appropriate footwear

» Never ignore or leave spillages of oil or grease

» Never rely on ropes, sheets or loads to support your weight

» Never jump down from the vehicle

» Take regular breaks to improve your concentration and get plenty of rest

» Only use the steps or ladder when exiting the vehicle

» Keep the cab clean and free of debris

» Never climb onto any vehicle while it is moving

» Never lean against vehicles as this can affect your balance

» Never drive while feeling tired

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