Mobile Equipment Blind Spots and Pedestrian Separation
If the Operator Cannot See You, the Machine Cannot Avoid You
A reversing vehicle, loader or forklift can move into a person’s space before either party has time to correct a misunderstanding. Mirrors, cameras and alarms help, but none of them makes every blind spot visible or guarantees that a distracted pedestrian will be detected. Reliable control begins by separating people from moving equipment and requires positive communication whenever work brings them together.
Controls to confirm
- Plan and maintain separate pedestrian routes, crossing points and equipment operating zones; use physical barriers where practicable and keep walkways, lighting, signs and sight lines clear.
- Before moving, complete the required machine checks, adjust mirrors and cameras, confirm alarms and warning devices work, and use a competent spotter with an agreed signal method where visibility or clearance is restricted.
- Pedestrians must stay outside operating zones unless entry is authorised and acknowledged by the operator; make eye contact or use the approved communication method, never pass behind moving equipment, and stop all movement if contact is lost.
Today’s action
Walk one vehicle route with an operator and a pedestrian today, identify every blind or conflict point, and correct the highest-risk gap before the next movement.
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