|
Printer
Friendly Version
May, 2008
Buckle Up - On and Off-Site
Hazard
Buckling up for vehicle travel on roads and highways is a common, habitual pattern for 95 per cent of Ontarios drivers. However, on worksites, with mobile equipment, different driving environments and frequent entering and exiting of vehicles, seatbelt use can be easily forgotten.
Seatbelt use is just as important on-site as it is off-site. Many driving risks can be amplified at the worksite: Mobile equipment used in the underground and aggregates is generally bigger, heavier, have substantial blind spots and require extensive braking systems. Not only is mobile equipment also more susceptible to rollovers, it is often operated in environments that present more risk for rollovers. In the event of a collision or an emergency stop, depending on load, speed and road conditions, these vehicles can throw an operator from their seat if a seatbelt is not being worn. During a rollover, properly used seatbelts prevent the operator from being ejected and crushed by rolling equipment.
Prevention
Buckle Up! If the mobile equipment you are operating comes equipped with a seatbelt, make sure to wear it! Workplaces should have a safe driving program in place that emphasizes seatbelt use. Supervisors should follow up with mobile equipment operators and passengers to ensure seatbelts are being worn. Preventive maintenance programs should ensure seatbelts are operating properly.
Regulations
Section 28(1)(b) of the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act states that an employee will use or wear the equipment, protective devices or clothing that the workers employer requires to be used or worn. In December of 2006 Ontario passed one person, one seatbelt legislation making it mandatory that everyone in a vehicle on a public roadway is wearing a seatbelt.
For more information or resources, please contact your MASHA
field consultant.
|
Home · Site Map · Admin
