Who needs a spotter? AGENDA Role of a Spotter Circle of Safety Parking Practices

Who needs a spotter? AGENDA Role of a Spotter Circle of Safety Parking Practices

The Role of a Spotter To minimize potential backing and equipment incidents by communicating the hazards present with the driver. To expand the driver s sense for right, left, front, and rear space cushions.

A Spotter Is Required When backing any vehicle Where negotiating forward or backward turns with tight side clearances Where overhead clearances are low or uncertain When driver s view is obstructed When objects in the area are within equipment's blind spots

Hazards of Spotting Equipment Pinch points / line of fire Limited visibility Cold weather will create large exhaust plumes Blowing snow Inadequate lighting Blind spots (all sizes of equipment) Slick or uneven working surfaces, etc

Blind Spot Recognition A blind spot is: An area around a vehicle that cannot be directly observed by the driver while at the controls, under existing circumstances. Any area a spotter is not looking or cannot see. Created by obstructions, lighting conditions, weather conditions, and vehicle design.

Blind Spot Recognition By recognizing the size and area of blind spots we can decide: what is relevant to negotiating a vehicles placement where to stand if we are spotting another driver if a spotter is required for the operation that will be performed

Recommended Spotting Signals

Driver Responsibilities Establish the need for a spotter prior to backing Determine training level of the spotter Determine location where spotter should stand Determine the best method for signals and the appropriate device for signaling (flashlight may be necessary) Identify final vehicle position to the spotter Determine any obstructions that may be hazards and communicate them to spotter Ensure there is nothing to impede safe operation of vehicle (Traction Devices) Be able to pivot right foot from accelerator to brake without lifting your heel Never lose site of the spotter while backing STOP BACKING IMMEDIATELY IF VISUAL/VERBAL CONTACT WITH THE SPOTTER IS LOST Ensure vehicle is secured (IN PARK or BRAKES SET) after final placement Stop the backing procedure and re-evaluate the scene if unsafe conditions develop.

Spotter Responsibilities Communicate with driver prior to spotting the vehicle or equipment. Help the driver to identify hazards or important information. Use standardized signals. Do not spot equipment from vehicles blind areas. Ensure contact with the driver at all times during the spotting procedure. (check the mirror) Ensure signals are visible during dark conditions. If using flashlights never point them at the driver s mirror Never walk into the line of fire of the moving vehicle. Always verify with driver the vehicle is secured (in PARK or Brakes Set) before entering the line of fire.

Before we start backing Be aware of the surroundings Don t let ourselves be distracted LOOK UP for overhead hazards Plan the route from start to finish Identify the obstacles Pre-determine communication method Agree on the location of the spotter

While backing. Maintain eye contact with the driver Keep the driver in the line of sight of the mirrors. Look for vehicles or people that may enter the path of the vehicle. STOP the driver until all is clear. Do not place yourself in the line of fire

Unusual situations.. At night, use flashlight/wands to help the driver see you. In congested or tight areas, use more than one spotter if necessary. Stop the backing process and regroup if required.

According to statistics nearly a quarter of all deaths involving vehicles at work happen when the vehicle is reversing USUALLY BECAUSE THE DRIVER OR PEDESTRIAN DID NOT PAY ATTENTION

Walk-around inspections Perform a pre-trip safety check Check fuel Check fluid levels Check tire pressure Check mirrors Check windshield wipers Check lights Check brakes

Take a stroll ~ Before you roll Walk Around magnet to be on drivers door below handle Magnet will adhere better to a clean surface Walk completely around vehicle before entering Identify hazards during the walk Avoid hazards during backing/pulling out

Parking Practices

Look further ahead

Achieve a circle of awareness

Are your eyes moving?

Surround yourself with space

Can they see you?

Choose the safest location possible Search for all potential hazards Scan, don t fixate Surround yourself with space Use warning devices Seek eye contact