Backing vehicles and spotters

Key points

1. 1Never walk or stand behind a vehicle that is backing up or could back up. If you have to pass, make eye contact with the driver first and wait for their signal.
2. 2If the driver's view to the rear is blocked, use a spotter. The driver backs only when the spotter says it's clear.
3. 3Spotters: stay where the driver can see you at all times, usually off to the driver's side. If the driver loses sight of you, the driver stops right away.
4. 4Agree on hand signals before the move starts: go, slow, and stop. Only one spotter gives signals, and anyone can call stop.
5. 5Spotters never walk backward or stand between the vehicle and a wall, trench, or other equipment. Keep an escape path open.
6. 6Drivers: check that the backup alarm works at the start of the shift. If it's broken, report it and don't back up without a spotter.
7. 7Wear your high-visibility vest near moving equipment, and keep phones and earbuds away so you can hear alarms and warnings.

Talk it over

• Where on this site do trucks back up the most, and where are people walking at the same time?
• What hand signals do we use here, and does everyone, including delivery drivers, know them?
• Have you ever seen a close call with a backing vehicle? What would have stopped it?

Also in the other language: Vehículos en reversa y señaleros

Official sources

• 29 CFR 1926.600 — Motor vehicles and mechanized equipment — equipmentecfr.gov
• 29 CFR 1926.601 — Motor vehiclesecfr.gov

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