TRF/Site Traffic/TBT-TRF-007

Reversing Procedures and Banksmen

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Reversing Procedures and Banksmen

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-TRF-007  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
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What?

  • Reversing vehicles cause more deaths on UK construction sites than any other vehicle movement type.
  • Blind spots on HGVs, dumpers, and excavators mean drivers cannot see pedestrians directly behind them.
  • A banksman is a trained person who guides reversing vehicles using standardised hand signals.
  • Banksmen must maintain a position where they can see the driver and the area behind the vehicle.
  • Reversing should be eliminated where possible through one-way systems and drive-through arrangements.
  • The Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 require safe vehicle movement on site.
  • Audible reversing alarms alone do not provide adequate protection — banksmen are also required.
  • The banksman must wear high-visibility clothing and use clear, agreed signals at all times.
  • Camera and sensor systems on vehicles assist the driver but do not replace the need for a banksman.
  • Banksmen must hold a valid CPCS or NPORS slinger/signaller card or equivalent competence.

Why?

Prevent fatalitiesReversing vehicles are the number one cause of vehicle-related deaths on UK sites.
Blind spot dangerDrivers of large vehicles cannot see directly behind — banksmen provide their eyes.
Legal requirementWorkplace regulations require safe traffic routes and procedures for reversing vehicles.
Technology limitationsCameras and sensors assist but do not replace a trained banksman's judgement.
Do Don't
  • Use a banksman whenever a vehicle reverses in areas where pedestrians may be present.
  • Eliminate reversing where possible using one-way systems and drive-through layouts.
  • Maintain eye contact between the driver and banksman throughout the reversing manoeuvre.
  • Use clear, agreed hand signals that both the banksman and driver understand.
  • Wear high-visibility clothing when acting as a banksman on site.
  • Position yourself where the driver can see you and you can see the danger zone.
  • Stop the manoeuvre immediately if visual contact with the driver is lost.
  • Ensure the reversing area is clear of pedestrians before signalling the driver.
  • Hold a valid CPCS or NPORS card if you are acting as a banksman.
  • Brief drivers on the reversing procedure and banksman location before they start.
  • DON'T walk behind a reversing vehicle under any circumstances.
  • DON'T signal a vehicle to reverse if the area behind is not clear.
  • DON'T allow reversing without a banksman where pedestrians are present.
  • DON'T rely on reversing alarms alone to protect pedestrians.
  • DON'T stand directly behind the reversing vehicle — stay to one side.
  • DON'T continue signalling if you lose eye contact with the driver.
  • DON'T use improvised hand signals — only use the agreed standard signals.
  • DON'T act as a banksman without the required training and competence.
  • DON'T allow vehicles to reverse across pedestrian walkways without control.
  • DON'T assume the driver can see you — confirm visual contact before every move.

See also: Delivery Vehicle Management | Plant and Pedestrian Segregation
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