Safety handsignals and blind spots

							18.15 Traffic control signals

(1) All signalling of traffic must conform with the requirements of the Traffic Control
Manual and this Regulation.

(2) A traffic control person (TCP) must use the normal signals shown in Figure 18-2
when stationed on the driver's (left) side of the traffic lane under the TCP's control.

(3) The alternative signals shown in Figure 18-2 must only be used when the traffic
control person is stationed on the passenger's (right) side of the traffic lane under
the TCP's control.

(4) The traffic control person's paddle must not be used to wave traffic on and must
never be displayed to traffic in other than a static manner.

Figure 18-1: Hand signals between traffic control persons
Figure 18-2: Hand signals for traffic control
Figure 18-2: Hand signals for traffic control (Continued)




                                Use the
                            standard signals
Signaller
Where there is a danger to workers from moving vehicles, particularly vehicles operating
in reverse, a signaller must be used to safely direct traffic. The signaller must be trained
in the on-site signals to be used, positioning, visibility, communication, and other points
outlined in the following sections.

A signaller must wear personal protective equipment such as approved boots, hard hat,
and reflective fluorescent blaze orange vest.

                                              Part-time Signaller Where a full-time
                                              signaller is not required because vehicle
                                              movement is limited, a worker must be
                                              designated as part-time signaller and
                                              accordingly notify all vehicles entering
                                              the work zone. Operators must understand
                                              that, where visibility is obstructed, no
                                              equipment will move without the
                                              signaller's assistance. The part-time
                                              signaller does regular work until a vehicle
                                              enters the work zone and requires
                                              assistance. Then the worker stops work to
                                              direct equipment. While signalling, the
                                              worker should not be doing any other
                                              work. Equipment operators must stop
                                              their vehicle at once if the signaller is not
                                              paying attention to the task at hand. Once
                                              signalling is finished, the worker should
                                              continue regular work until required to
                                              signal again.
Signallers must stand outside the equipment's path of travel in case they trip and fall.
When directing on-site traffic, the signaller must have a clear view of the intended path
and must be fully visible to drivers to ensure that signals are being received. The signaller
should stand squarely in the operator's mirror view, thereby ensuring maximum visibility.

For radio communication, equipment must be in good operating condition and batteries
fully charged. When visual signals are used, they must be clear. Use the entire arm to
indicate directional changes, not just fingers.

                               Workers should be
                                   instructed
                             in the proper methods
Training

Site personnel should be trained to recognize blind spots the areas around every vehicle
that are partly or completely invisible to the operator or driver, even with the help of
mirrors. Specific training can then focus on the following points:

Workers on Foot

      Know how to work safely around trucks and operating equipment.
      Understand the effect of blind spots around vehicles and equipment.
      Avoid entering or standing in blind spots.
      Make eye contact with the driver or operator before approaching equipment.
      Signal intentions to the driver or operator.
      Where available, use separate access rather than vehicle ramps to enter and exit
       the site.
      Avoid standing and talking near vehicle paths, grading operations, and other
       activities where heavy equipment is moving back and forth.
      Advise fellow workers whenever they may be in a hazardous location.

Drivers and Operators

      Always obey the signaller or spotter. If more than one person is signalling, stop
       your vehicle and determine which one to obey.
      Remain in the cab if possible in areas where other equipment is likely to be
       backing up or may not see you because of blind spots.
      Make sure all mirrors are intact, functional, and properly adjusted for the best
       view.
      After leaving your equipment for any period of time, do a circle check when you
       return. Walk around the equipment to ensure the area is clear before you get into
       the cab and start moving.
      Stop the vehicle at once when a spotter, worker, or anyone else disappears from
       view.
Signallers

      Stay alert to recognize and deal with dangerous situations.
      Know and use the standard signals for on-site traffic.
      Wear reflective fluorescent blaze orange vest and bright hard hat for high
       visibility.
      Understand the maneuvering limitations of vehicles and equipment.
      Know driver and operator blind spots.
      Stand where you can see and be seen by the driver or operator.
      Make eye contact with driver or operator before signalling or changing location.
      Never do other work when directing equipment.
      Notify drivers or operators that you are the designated signaller and that they must
       not maneuver without your guidance where their view is obstructed.
Blind Spots