Toolbox talk, Hazards, about 7 minutes
Working near traffic
Date
Site or job
Led by
Why this one
Drivers are tired, late or on their phones, and a worker on foot is easy to miss. Crews working on roads, lots and ramps are hit by vehicles every year. The plan and the barrier are what protect you, not the driver.
Say this
- 1.Follow the traffic control plan. Don't change cones, signs or barriers on your own.
- 2.Wear high-visibility clothing that fits your site's requirements, and keep it clean.
- 3.Face traffic when you can. Keep your back to the barrier and your eyes on the vehicles.
- 4.Stay inside the protected work zone. Don't step into a live lane to grab a tool.
- 5.Use a trained flagger or spotter where the plan calls for one. Agree on signals first.
- 6.Park work vehicles to shield the crew, and never leave a truck running with no one in it.
- 7.Have a way out. If a vehicle comes into the work zone, know which way to run.
Ask the crew
- – What's the closest call you've seen with traffic and a crew?
- – Where do we park and walk so vehicles can see us?
- – Who has the authority to stop the work if traffic control isn't right?
Watch for today
- Cones, signs or barriers that moved, got knocked down or are missing.
- Workers on foot outside the protected area, or with their back to traffic.
- Drivers speeding, drifting or not slowing for the work zone.
Close with: Never trust the driver. Trust the barrier.
Notes and questions raised
Name (print)
Signature
Initials
A starting point. Adapt it to your job, your procedures and the rules that apply to you. portalbaseai.com/toolbox-talks