V9 Vehicle Manoeuvering

Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS) FORS is important to our company because it helps us: Demonstrate the quality of our operation Improve our road safety record To win / maintain work Remain legally compliant Become more efficient Reduce our environmental impacts Requirement: Fleet operators shall risk-assess the potential for persons to fall off vehicles and for unauthorised access to vehicles and where appropriate take mitigating action.

Communicate this company’s policy to all driver’s (including sub-contracted and agency drivers) on vehicle manoeuvring including driving forward, reversing, towing, uncoupling, and parking. Aim of toolbox talk

What can you do? Be aware of other road users in your blindspot particularly on both sides of your vehicle and at the rear of Remove items that might reduce your visibility from your windscreen, mirrors, windows, monitors and dashboard. If you are involved in a collisions (minor and major) or a near miss, you should report it to your supervisor as soon as possible. If reversing is unavoidable, use organised routes to minimise the need for reversing If there is a one way system on the site, use it YOU should always observe your surroundings before carrying out any manoeuvre and use your mirrors.

Use of aids to help with manoeuvres

DO NOT reverse or turn around in a busy road DO NOT reverse from a side road into a main road. Where possible use the help of a ‘banksman’ Make sure you understand the banksman's signals before starting the reversing manoeuvre. Reverse slowly with caution If the view in your mirrors becomes obstructed, or you’re unsure of distances, stop, get out of your vehicle and check access before continuing the manoeuvre. Reversing

Know the length, width, and height of your vehicle when attempting a parking manoeuvre. Be aware of your surroundings, and identify any potential hazards. Be aware of where you can park according to the Highway Code and local signposting Understand the risks of leaving your vehicle badly parked and how to avoid doing this. Parking

You should check your driving licence to make sure you’re allowed to tow a trailer. Towing a trailer will also reduce the speed you’re allowed to travel at. You MUST NOT tow more than your licence permits Make sure you have an adequate view of the road behind you Make sure that your lights and indicators are in good working order Towing

Ensure that coupling and uncoupling areas are well lit, with firm and level surfaces. You should be properly trained to carry out un/coupling activities safely Always follow a safe system of work Ensure that you are wearing the appropriate clothing to conduct any coupling activities Ensure that those involved are aware of safety procedures and understand how to use the equipment safely. Coupling and uncoupling procedure

Reduced loss through damage, injury and people off work Better insurance rates The company can avoid compensation payments, fines and legal costs Your company’s reputation is protected It improves YOUR morale as an employee Improved working practices Benefits

Understanding the toolbox talk What is the company goal with regards to vehicle manoeuvring? Name three procedures you should adopt when reversing the vehicle If you have to park a vehicle on a slope, how is it best to do this? What aids are available to help you manoeuvre your vehicle?

Safe manoeuvring summary To sum up: We need to ensure that there is a reduction in the potential to injure people and property through the careful control of vehicles. It is important to be aware of the hazards and obstacles that may be in your way when carrying out a manoeuvre. All collisions (minor and major) and near misses should be reported to your supervisor as soon as possible. The consequences of not following the correct procedures could mean vehicles and equipment is damaged, however, things could be a lot more serious, so why take the risk?

Any questions ?