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612 Work Zone Traffic Safety
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Backing Safety Solutions

Spotters

Spotters are a proven method of protecting employees on foot behind vehicles with an obstructed view, but spotters themselves can be at risk for injury or even death. Employers can implement the following actions to help keep spotters safe:

  • Ensure that spotters and drivers agree on hand signals before backing up.
  • Instruct spotters to always maintain visual contact with the driver while the vehicle is backing.
  • Instruct drivers to stop backing immediately if they lose sight of the spotter.
  • Do not give spotters additional duties while they are acting as spotters.
  • Instruct spotters not to use personal mobile phones, personal headphones, or other items which could pose a distraction during spotting activities.
  • Provide spotters with high-visibility clothing, especially during night operations.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

2-4. What must a vehicle driver do while the vehicle is in motion if the spotter is out of the field of view?