Spotter Safety

When it comes to backing safety, we learn about the importance of the use of a spotter or ground guide. A spotter is necessary when the driver or operator does not have a full view of the backing path. This holds true for any vehicle or piece of equipment, whether it's a forklift carrying a large load, a combine backing into a work bay, or a materials truck making a delivery. In order to make backing a totally safe operation, we must also address the duties and responsibilities of the spotter.

Being a spotter may appear to be an easy job to perform, with not a lot of thought required. When in fact, a spotter is being put in a position that can make a major difference between an accident occurring or not. Experience has proven that on a worksite, the potential for foot traffic and backing vehicles with obstructed rear views frequently entering the same paths is great. When these two come together, the results can be fatal.

Tips to consider while spotting

• The spotter must first recognize the fact the he or she is there to direct the safe movement of the vehicle and that the driver is reliant upon their guidance.

• The spotter must give clear and understandable signals.

• The spotter should never pass out of view of the driver without stopping the vehicle.

• The spotter should never go directly behind a vehicle unless the vehicle is completely stopped and the operator agrees that it is okay to do so.

• The spotter should remain in clear sight of the operator and always signal on the driver’s side of the vehicle toward the rear.

• The spotter should also instruct the operator to stop if there is ever a time when the operator cannot positively identify the spotter’s whereabouts.

• The spotter should move about in a safe manner to avoid slipping tripping or falling.

• The spotter should wear high-visibility clothing to increase his or her chances of being seen by the backing vehicles and others on site.

When the operator and the spotter are working together as a team, it helps to ensure the safe movement of vehicles on the jobsite. Make it a practice!

Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility!