Kaye Byrne discusses the importance of onsite traffic management.

We have all been stuck in roadworks at one time or another, but does traffic management sometimes confuse you? Are the gaps between the cones big enough for a vehicle to weave in and out? Are the arrows pointing in conflicting directions, or are the road signs and cones out, but there is no sign of activity? The risk of vehicle incidents increases when the traffic management plan presents itself in a confusing manner for road users and for road workers.

Your workplace can be equally confusing and prone to risk, especially if the site is new. Workplace traffic management has three aspects: the site, vehicles or machines, and people. Improving safety at the worksite means reviewing the site’s layout, the purpose and how it is used.

Is the site systematically designed? Is the speed limit clearly visible? You may have to consider speed changes or other measures to slow down traffic. Are traffic areas separated so that equipment such as forklifts can be segregated from the trucks? Is the workers’ parking area outside the operating area? Can visitors easily identify the parking area and is it far from any onsite activity? A one-way traffic flow system is always a great way to predict traffic flow and requires little or no turning. Are walkways clearly marked? Marking them with lines works well, as does using objects such as cones and planter boxes.

Think about your vehicles or machines. Are they fit for purpose? Are the machines visible, and do they have lights, beepers, colour, etc? Can the workflow be configured to reduce interactions between vehicles, machines and people? People need to be aware of the traffic flow. For example, are they likely to come into the pathway of a forklift or truck? They must understand the safe places to stand when loading and unloading is taking place. Staff must be aware of their surroundings and what is expected of them. This is achieved by conducting inductions with all staff, contractors and visitors.

Creating and documenting a traffic management plan is a wise choice. Management needs to be involved as well as employees. This enables a comprehensive review of the traffic management plan, leading to a better plan and greater compliance.

Check it periodically to ensure it’s up to date and functional. Any change in work may require a change in the plan. Planning for traffic on your worksite is an easy and effective step towards keeping people safe.