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7.2 Motor Vehicles, Mechanised Equipment and Signs
Subpart O of the construction standard covers vehicles that operate on an off-highway job site that is not open to public traffic. Rollover protection and signs, signals and barricades are in other subparts.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ROPS | Rollover protective structure: a frame that protects the operator if equipment overturns. |
| Barricade | An obstruction that stops people or vehicles from passing. |
| Signs | Visual warnings of a hazard, fixed or placed where the hazard exists. |
| Signals | Moving signs, such as flaggers or flashing lights, that warn of a hazard. |
| Tags | Temporary signs, usually attached to equipment, that warn of an existing or immediate hazard. |
Vehicle requirements
- Every vehicle must have a service brake system, an emergency brake system and a parking brake system. They may share parts, but they must always be in working order.
- Check every vehicle at the start of each shift. The checks cover service brakes including trailer brake connections, the parking brake, emergency stopping system, tyres, horn, steering, coupling devices, seat belts, operating controls and safety devices. Correct all defects before the vehicle is put into service.
- Do not move vehicles or equipment on an access road or grade unless it is built and kept in a condition to take that movement safely.
- An emergency access ramp must be built to restrain and control runaway vehicles.
Audible alarms
Bidirectional machines, such as rollers, compactors, front end loaders and bulldozers, must have a horn that can be distinguished from the surrounding noise. It is sounded as needed when the machine moves in either direction and is always kept working.
Signs, signals and barricades
Signs and symbols must be visible whenever work is going on, and removed or covered promptly when the hazard is gone. Flaggers, flashing lights and barricades control traffic where work is done near a public road.
A study aid, not published or endorsed by IOSH or OSHA. Laws and limits differ between countries.