# Backing vehicles and spotters

URL: https://hardhatbinder.com/en/toolbox-talks/backing-and-spotters
Last updated: 2026-10-23

Trucks, dump trucks, and equipment back up on our sites every day, and the driver can't see much behind them. A person walking behind a backing vehicle can be hit before anyone knows it. This week, let's make sure every backing move is planned, watched, and controlled.

## Key points

1. Never 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. If the driver's view to the rear is blocked, use a spotter. The driver backs only when the spotter says it's clear.
3. Spotters: 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. Agree on hand signals before the move starts: go, slow, and stop. Only one spotter gives signals, and anyone can call stop.
5. Spotters never walk backward or stand between the vehicle and a wall, trench, or other equipment. Keep an escape path open.
6. Drivers: 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. Wear 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?

> **Remember:** If the driver can't see you, you're not safe: stay out from behind, and stop when sight is lost.

## Official sources

- [29 CFR 1926.600](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/section-1926.600) — Motor vehicles and mechanized equipment — equipment
- [29 CFR 1926.601](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/section-1926.601) — Motor vehicles

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Source: HardHat Binder, operated by Leadspire LLC. Templates to be reviewed by a competent person before use; not legal advice; not affiliated with OSHA.