There are many ways to prevent striking a fixed object when on the job. Eliminate your work tasks near fixed objects or avoiding installing fixed objects near paths of travel in the first place is the best choice. However, a combination of safeguards is another effective method to reduce the chance of striking fixed objects.
Use these safeguards and best practices to reduce the chance of objects being struck:
- Avoid backing. Often times, objects are struck when individuals are backing up.
- Never park within a few feet of a fixed object. Doing so leaves more of a chance that you or the next person using the equipment or vehicle will strike the object.
- Always perform a full walk around of the vehicle or equipment prior to operation.
- Pay attention while operating or driving-even at low speeds. Distractions or complacency are often a factor in low speed collisions.
- Use a spotter anytime you are working near fixed objects.
- Make the object more visible by using orange flags or other bright markers to bring attention to it.
Collisions with fixed objects are truly 100% preventable if the proper steps are taken to avoid them.
Read how you can also prevent wooden pallet-related injuries on the job.
