TRF/Site Traffic/TBT-TRF-007

Reversing Procedures and Banksmen

Traffic Management › Site Traffic › Reversing Procedures and Banksmen

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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.

Prevent fatalities	Reversing vehicles are the number one cause of vehicle-related deaths on UK sites.
Blind spot danger	Drivers of large vehicles cannot see directly behind — banksmen provide their eyes.
Legal requirement	Workplace regulations require safe traffic routes and procedures for reversing vehicles.
Technology limitations	Cameras and sensors assist but do not replace a trained banksman's judgement.

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.

See also: Delivery Vehicle Management | Plant and Pedestrian Segregation

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