Scenario Exercise #6
Kalesh KC - CMIOSH , MIIRSM
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You are overseeing a busy construction site where various types of mobile equipment, including forklifts, excavators, and cranes, are being used simultaneously. Recently, there was a near-miss incident where a forklift operator, who was distracted while communicating via a handheld radio, almost collided with a worker on foot. The site is large, and visibility is often limited due to the movement of heavy equipment and the presence of multiple workers in close proximity.
What are the primary hazards associated with the use of mobile equipment on construction sites?
How can these hazards be mitigated, especially in areas with heavy foot and vehicle traffic?
What are the best practices for ensuring the safe operation of mobile equipment, particularly in busy or congested areas?
How would you address the issue of distractions while operating equipment?
What traffic control measures can be implemented to separate pedestrians from mobile equipment?How would you ensure that these measures are consistently followed on-site?
"Electrical Engineer | Safety Specialist | Ensuring Compliance & Well-being"| Dy Manager safety| ISO 14001 & 45001| Various international Client's Approved HSE
9moSome of the risks that are likely to occur in construction sites with mobile equipment include the following; The mobile equipment may cause an impact on the operator who is, at times other mobile equipment or any fixed objects that may be nearby especially when the visibility is limited. These risks can be avoided through proper traffic control measures such as having a special strip for pedestrian crossing that should be well fenced or painted different color from that of the lanes. Correct operating procedures, in addition, needs training for the operators and at the same time focusing on their tasks as well as they are always in touch with the spotters using wireless installations, for instance. Other forms of distraction such as wearing headphones while controlling the equipment should be completely prohibited. Ideally, it is preferable that these measures should be enforced at work places; this can easily be achieved by having safety meetings once a month, signs posted around and through the supervisors monitoring their subordinates.
Assistant Manager-HSE
9moThe first concern is to develop a man machine interface program, for pedestrian access and vehicle access shall be defined, Proximity warning alert system(PWAS) shall be implemented-where we can avoid collide with workmens, Awareness training shall be conducted on frequently, driving behaviour program shall be developed and mandated for all the operators and drivers who all are involved in the projects
Environmental Health & Safety Manager
9mo1st of all you have to update the logestic plan and focus on the implementation on site furthermore, you have opportunities to improve the issues by following method, Create and enforce exclusion zones where mobile equipment operates, restricting access to only authorized personnel. Assign trained spotters to guide operators, especially when reversing or maneuvering in tight spaces. Develop a site-specific traffic management plan that includes designated routes for vehicles and pedestrians, speed limits, and clearly marked crossings. Install proximity sensors, cameras, and alarms on mobile equipment to alert operators of nearby obstacles or personnel. Ensure all operators are properly trained and certified to operate the specific type of mobile equipment they are assigned to. Where possible, segregate areas where mobile equipment is in use from areas where workers are on foot or where other vehicles are operating. Enforce reduced speed limits for mobile equipment operating in congested or high-traffic areas to reduce the risk of accidents.