Health and Safety A-Z
Topic: Driving (Motor Vehicles)
Summary:
Motor vehicle collisions account for 30% of work-related fatalities (Ontario WSIB statistics, 2005 – 2009), the most significant risk faced by Ontario workers. If accidents involving powered industrial vehicles and equipment are included this number rises to 45%. It is difficult to provide a short summary of expectations or requirements for safe driving, but if your work includes driving, or if you are responsible for the safety of someone who drives, the following may serve as a useful starting point:
- Drivers must meet the requirements of the Ontario Highway Traffic Act when on public roads and should take similar precautions when on private roads
- Drivers must not operate equipment if impaired by drugs (including prescribed medications), alcohol, fatigue or distractions (eg. cellphones)
- A vehicle / equipment should not be used unless it has not been properly maintained and is in good working order
- Drivers / Operators should conduct a circle check before operating their vehicle / equipment. (This can be as simple as walking around the vehicle to see if there are any obvious signs of a problem)
- Drivers should ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing his or her seatbelt. Operators should ensure safety features on equipment (eg. roll over protective structures, ROPS, seat belts) are used, as required
- Drivers should ensure both the trailer and anything in the trailer, are secure (as required)
- Drivers and operators should turn off and secure (lock) a vehicle / equipment before leaving it unattended
- Drivers / Operators should immediately bring questions or concerns to their supervisor
- Supervisors should ensure safe driving (operating) procedures are understood and followed, and that questions and concerns are promptly addressed
- Managers should ensure the resources necessary for safe driving / operation are provided
For Information See:
Driving, Driving ergonomics, winter driving, CCOHS
Additional Resources:
Highway Traffic Act – R.S.O. 1990, CHAPTER H.8
Last Revised: April 26, 2019