Delivery vehicles entering construction sites create significant risks to pedestrians and site workers. Poorly coordinated deliveries lead to congestion, unplanned reversing, and vehicles arriving when the site is not ready to receive them. Managing deliveries through booking systems, designated routes, and clear communication keeps everyone safe. This talk explains how delivery vehicles must be managed and what every operative needs to know.
Key Hazards
Pedestrians struck by delivery vehicles manoeuvring on site
Unplanned reversing in congested areas with limited visibility
Overloaded or unstable loads shifting during vehicle movement
Drivers unfamiliar with site layout entering restricted zones
Control Measures
Use a delivery booking system to schedule arrivals and prevent congestion at the site entrance.
Brief all delivery drivers on site rules, speed limits, and designated routes at the gatehouse.
Provide a banksman to guide delivery vehicles from the entrance to the offloading point.
Designate specific offloading areas with firm, level standing for delivery vehicles.
Separate pedestrian routes from delivery vehicle movements using physical barriers and signage.
Ensure reversing is minimised by providing one-way routes or turning areas where possible.
Check that all delivery vehicles have current insurance, MOT, and roadworthy condition before entry.
Coordinate deliveries with the lifting team so cranes or telehandlers are available for offloading.
Refuse entry to any vehicle that cannot be safely accommodated on site at that time.
Remember
All deliveries must be booked in advance to prevent congestion and unplanned arrivals
Every delivery driver must be briefed on site rules and routes before entering
A banksman must guide delivery vehicles from the gate to the offloading point
Pedestrian and vehicle routes must be physically separated at all times on site
Refuse entry to any delivery that cannot be safely received at that moment
Coordinate delivery timing with the availability of cranes or offloading equipment
Applicable Legislation: CDM Regulations 2015 · Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · HSG144 (Safe Use of Vehicles on Construction Sites)