Workplace transport inspection pack

oad-going vehicles. Insecure loads on vehicles cause danger in workplaces and,perhaps more importantly, when the vehicle is on the road.The security of loads on vehicles on the public highway is a matter for the police butInspectors should ensure that employers have safe systems of work for preventingloads falling off vehicles in workplaces, and in particular for dealing with any loadswhich arrive in an insecure state. The security of loads on roadgoing vehicles isaddressed in the Dept of Transport publication "Safety of loads on vehicles" (Freedownload from DfT website). Following the guidance in booklet HSG 6 "Safety inworking with lift trucks" should minimise the risk of loads falling off FLTs. There isalso some sector specific guidance see section 4.2.4.5 Parking vehicles and trailersAccidents occur due to drivers leaving vehicles and trailers in an unsafe condition;usually due to drivers failing to set brakes properly, especially on articulatedtractors and trailers. Drivers of workplace vehicles should be instructed on how topark each vehicle type they use, as there can be significant differences andmisunderstandings are common. Trailer parking and cab hand brakes shouldalways be used – there have been a number of fatal accidents recently caused bynot using these. See “Code of Practice – Coupling or uncoupling & parking of largegoods vehicle trailers SOE IRTE 2006.Immobilisation should usually involve removing any ignition or starter switch key tohelp prevent unauthorised use, especially by younger staff who often find excuses tomove vehicles if keys are left in. More innovative solutions such as PIN code vehicleaccess systems linked to training databases are becoming more common in biggeremployers.2.5 Further adviceLA Inspectors can often access specialist traffic engineers within their own localauthority: the Highways section can advise on road layouts, signs, appropriate speedlimits for sites etc; the Road Safety section can advise on traffic calming andnormally has a speed gun available.HSE Inspectors requiring specialist advice on site layout issues to minimiseworkplace transport risks should submit a request to their local SG Civil Engineeringdiscipline. Vehicle and driver training issues should request help from SGMechanical Engineering discipline.LA Inspectors can also access specialist HSE advice via their Enforcement LiaisonOfficer (ELO).