Effective Communication for Lorry Banksman Safety

The Importance of Clear Communication

In any workplace involving moving vehicles like lorries, clear communication is vital for safety.

The Role of a Lorry Banksman

A Lorry Banksman guides vehicle movements, ensuring they are conducted safely, especially in areas with limited visibility.

Methods of Communication

Communication methods include hand signals, verbal instructions, and sometimes, radio communication.

Benefits of Clear Communication

• Reduced Risk: Clear communication reduces the risk of misunderstandings that can lead to accidents, crucial in dealing with large vehicles like lorries.
• Efficiency: Clear instructions enable tasks to be completed more quickly and smoothly.
• Team Building: Effective communication fosters cooperation and mutual respect among team members.

Visibility and Audibility

Visibility and audibility are crucial for effective communication:

• Visibility: Banksman's hand signals must be clearly visible to the driver at all times, often requiring specific positioning or high-visibility clothing.
• Audibility: Verbal or radio instructions should be clear and audible over background noise.

Tips for Enhancing Communication

• Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with the driver to ensure they can see your signals clearly.
• Standardised Signals: Use HSE-approved hand signals to avoid confusion.
• Clear Verbal Communication: Speak clearly and avoid jargon or slang.
• Signal to Stop: In case of doubt, always signal the driver to stop.