Avoiding Backing Accidents

The number one cause of preventable vehicle and equipment accidents is generally due to backing and what the operator did or failed to do.

 

There is a higher level of responsibility on operators as vehicle size increases and visibility to the rear of the vehicle decreases. However, there are common sense backing rules which apply to all vehicles and should be followed:

 

• Avoid backing when possible. When in doubt, don't back up.
• Plan your route of travel to avoid having to back your vehicle.
• Park your vehicle in a position that allows you to pull out into traffic and not back out.
• Use all rear-view mirrors before and during backing. Use the rear window if not obstructed.
• Back slowly and cautiously, keeping the vehicle in complete control.
• If backing is unavoidable, back only as far as necessary to accomplish the intended maneuver.
• When parking a vehicle that later must be backed, the operator may place a cone behind the vehicle to maintain clearance and serve as a reminder to check behind the vehicle before backing. A flagger or spotter may be needed.

Backing trucks including pickups and other vehicles with limited or obstructed visibility to the rear:

• Sound the horn before backing. If at all possible, get someone to help you back.
• Establish eye contact with the spotter and keep them in sight at all times while backing.
• Stop immediately if you lose sight of the spotter.
• If another employee is not available you should get out of the vehicle and check for clearance and you may have to walk completely around the vehicle to do so.
• Be alert for all overhead obstructions.
• Looks are for free. Use your defensive driving skills.
• Backing safely is still your responsibility.

Backing heavy equipment:

Certain equipment operations don't fit all the backing rules. It is dangerous, for example to have a spotter for a loader filling trucks during snow and ice operations. Other examples are graders, rollers, and equipment that operate back and forth and movement is constant. In such cases the operators should use extreme care and good judgment and observe all practical backing precautions.

All equipment backup alarms are to be operational.