Machine operators: do you know all the signals that a banksman might give? Banksmen: do you know the right signals to use?
Toolbox Talk Banksman signals
Banksman signals What is a banksman? A banksman is a person who assists in the safe operation of a vehicle or machine by giving signals to the driver. Doing this safely relies on using a set of clearly defined signals that can be easily understood by the banksman and the driver. The standard signals defined in Health & Safety regulations are illustrated on the following pages, but before looking at them please consider the following points. When should a banksman be used? A banksman is needed when the driver’s view is obstructed so that they cannot see to do the job safely on their own. This could include: Reversing a van onto a trailer Manoeuvring a vehicle or machine in a confined space or close to an edge Tipping a large dumper whose raised bucket obstructs the driver’s view Reversing a van and trailer off the worksite onto a road Using an excavator to reach down into a lock chamber where the driver can’t see Taking a machine along a towpath where the driver might not see walkers approaching
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Can you avoid it? In some of the above examples it might be possible to re-design the job so that the driver can see what they’re doing and a banksman isn’t needed. Think about it. Where to stand. The banksman needs to find a safe place to stand, where they: Can see and be seen clearly by the driver Are clear of any danger from the vehicle or machine, or other hazards such a drop Have a clear view of the job
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Understand each other. The banksman and driver need to ensure that they both fully understand the job and can communicate properly using the appropriate signals, before starting work. If you’re the driver and you don’t understand the signals you are being given, stop work and speak to the banksman. If you’re the banksman and the driver doesn’t seem to be doing what you want, give the signal to stop and discuss it with them. Only one banksman. There can be a temptation for more than one person to join in and start giving signals to the same machine operator. This is generally not a good idea: it may result in the driver receiving conflicting signals. If you’re the driver and you find two people signalling to you, make it clear that you only want directions from one person. If you’re a banksman and find somebody else giving signals, tell them to stop. NOTE: there is occasionally an exception to this, where you need two banksmen to carry out two different functions - for example if you are reversing a machine while lifting or dragging a load, you may need one person to watch the load and another to guide you as you reverse. Make sure all three of you understand fully what you’re doing, and who’s watching what. PPE In addition to whatever site procedures have been agreed regarding the wearing of safety equipment, banksmen working with machines should wear hi-vis vests or jackets. It’s also a good idea when reversing a van out onto a road, but probably not necessary when backing onto a trailer in a village hall car park.
For a video showing the signals illustrated on the next two pages, see www.hse.gov.uk/workplacetransport/safetysigns/banksman
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