Safety Near Mobile Equipment

Many workplace accidents occur when pedestrians are struck or crushed by mobile plant, or equipment, or their loads.

There is often an operational reason for the person to be close to mobile equipment. For example, guiding suspended loads, clearing a pathway, securing or loosening a load while held under tension, or a spotter guiding the operator. Most of these roles are typically carried out by trained dogmen or riggers.

Pedestrian Exclusion Zones

The workplace safety regulations do not specify a separation distance for pedestrians from mobile equipment, but best practice companies and guidance materially specify at least 3m exclusion zones around maneuvering mobile equipment.

However, sometimes the danger comes from the load not the mobile equipment directly. For example, where a load has tipped over or shifted suddenly while being (un)loaded for transport.

Worker unbolting a frame while held on forklift tines

Lift Plans

Every business with cranes, hoists or forklifts need a “lift plan” for all movement of loads, which might be standard templates for common lifts with same circumstances.

The lift plan will usually be part of the standard operating procedure for routine movement of loads. However, a separate lift plan will be required (handwritten OK) for non-routine or high-risk loads.

Traffic Management Plan

In addition to the lift plan mentioned above, every business with mobile plant or vehicles on site need to put a traffic management plan in place.

Traffic management plans typically include; one-way traffic on site (where possible), clear pedestrian and traffic routes, designated parking and (un)loading areas, safety zones for pedestrians (and drivers waiting for truck (un)loading), signage and line marking, training.

For a traffic management review or assistance with lift plans email or call us on 03 8544 4300.