Recently, we have seen several examples of high-profile Health & Safety cases involving traffic management and vehicle-related accidents in the workplace.
Traffic management is a vitally important area of Health & Safety, yet it can often be overlooked. And while we often associate the safe management of vehicles with sectors such as transport, agriculture, and construction, this is also a key area for industries such as hospitality, events, retail, and warehousing.
For example, a restaurant owner who receives regular deliveries to their premises should have a plan in place for where the delivery trucks will park and how the drivers can safely maneuver their vehicles.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of implementing a robust traffic management plan.
What is a traffic management plan?
A Traffic Management Plan (TMP) is a formal workplace document outlining how to safely manage vehicles, pedestrians, and machinery.
The plan usually includes details on traffic routing, signage layouts, and safety procedures, all aimed at reducing the risk of disruption and accidents.
Some other terms for a traffic management plan include a Traffic Control Plan (TCP), Temporary Traffic Management Layout Drawing (TTMLD), or Traffic Management Strategy.
Why is a traffic management plan important?
A traffic management plan is important because it:
- Ensures safety: A TMP protects the safety of those on your premises by separating pedestrians from traffic, managing speed limits, and creating safe zones. It should also reduce blind spots for drivers.
- Minimises congestion: A TMP prevents traffic bottlenecks, reduces disruption to road users, and ensures efficient flow in high-density areas.
- Ensures compliance: Implementing a TMP helps you meet your Health & Safety obligations.
- Maintains access: Your TMP should include plans for emergency service access and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and nearby businesses.
- Reduces confusion: Clear signage, lane marking, and barrier placements help prevent confusion, which can in turn cause accidents.
- Improves efficiency: A TMP outlines routes for deliveries, reducing idle time for materials and ensuring smooth site operations.
- Mitigates risks: A TMP includes risk assessments for all traffic-related tasks, including site set-up, operations, and removal.
As an employer, it’s crucial to assess your business operations and identify any situations in which vehicles are operated on your premises. Failure to implement a comprehensive TMP for situations such as construction, events, or commercial operations can create significant risks for your staff and other members of the public.
It’s also important to note that, depending on the size and scope of your project, a TMP may need to be carried out by an individual with specific expertise and qualifications in traffic management.
Have a question about traffic management? Give us a call any time on our 24/7 dedicated advice line.
If you are not currently a client, you can give us a call on 1800 719 216.