Construction site drivers’ safe work practices checklist

To keep , Enfield-based London plant hire supplier, Mr Plant Hire has put together the following useful checklist of safe work practices for drivers of construction site vehicles, based on HSE advice.

Competence

Only operate vehicles if you are competent and authorised to drive them
Do not drive when your abilities are impaired by ill health, poor vision, prescribed or illegal drugs, or alcohol

Knowledge

Make sure you fully understand the operating procedures of the vehicles you control and all of the accessories you are using
Know the site emergency procedures
Understand the system of signals used on site

Permissions & Limitations

Visiting drivers: seek appropriate authority to enter the site and operate vehicles
Know the safe operating limitations of your vehicle, particularly relating to safe maximum loads and gradientsCarry out daily checks on your vehicles and report all defects immediately to supervisors
Follow site procedures and comply with all site rules
Do not drive at excessive speeds

Navigation

- Follow established site traffic routes
- Ensure that windows and mirrors are kept clean and clear
- Keep the vehicle tidy and free from items which may hinder the operation of vehicle controls
- Do not allow passengers to ride on vehicles unless safe seating is provided

Parking & Reversing

Park vehicles on flat ground wherever possible, with the engine switched off, the handbrake and trailer brake applied, and where necessary use wheel chocks
Do not reverse without checking behind the vehicle for pedestrians, vehicles or obstructions
Where visibility from the driving position is restricted, use visibility aids or a signaller. Stop if you lose sight of the signaller or the visibility aid becomes defective

Loading and refuelling

Do not remain on vehicles during loading operations, unless the driver’s position is adequately protected
Ensure loads are safe to transport
Do not smoke during refuelling operations

Avoid the following whilst the vehicle is in operation

Do not attempt to get on or off moving vehicles
Do not make adjustments with the engine running and guards removed

Mr Plant Hire – your first port of call for London plant hire

Enfield-based, Mr Plant Hire, provide a comprehensive range of plant hire for construction sites including micro excavator hire, mini excavator hire, skip loader hire or mini digger hire across London and the South East.

In response to today’s emphasis on and need to conform to health and safety, Mr Plant Hire now has its own dedicated Company Health & Safety Manager who deals with in-house health and safety and related training and is also available to advise customers at any time on these issues.