Workplace activities include vehicle and mobile plant operations which may cause serious accidents. According to Health and Safety Executive, over 5,000 accidents yearly involve workplace transport. This is not just it. Even reversing operations make up a quarter of all fatal accidents yearly.
That said, it is important that employers prioritise the safety of the workers and reduce the risks. Banksmen help ensure smooth operations to prevent accidents.
In this blog, we will discuss what a banksman is and the duties and responsibilities of a banksman.
What is A Banksman?
A banksman is a competent individual who has received specialised banksman training and is responsible for supervising work activities that involve vehicles and mobile machinery. In different industries, a Banksman has the role of ensuring the safety and efficient movement of vehicles and mobile plants.
A Banksman plays an important role in ensuring the safety of certain operations, such as those involving crane lifts, traffic flow, traffic management, and vehicle direction.
Understanding the Banksman Role
A Banksman’s role is essential in areas where visibility is limited and there is a high risk of accidents due to the presence of pedestrians or obstacles. A banksman does several things to minimise the risks associated with vehicles. These include:
- Managing traffic in a way to avoid excess queueing.
- Directing the vehicles and loads using hand signals and/or verbal codes.
- Understanding the site risks and how to manage them.
- Creating safe on-site traffic systems to ensure the vehicles move safely.
Duties and Responsibilities of a Banksman
Now that you’re aware of the role of a banksman let’s dive deeper into the duties and responsibilities.
Directing Vehicle and Machinery Movements
One of the primary responsibilities of a Banksman is to direct the movements of vehicles and mobile machinery in a safe and efficient manner. Using clear hand signals or communication devices, they guide the driver or operator during tasks like reversing, turning, or manoeuvring in tight spaces, ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
Ensuring Safe Working Practices
A Banksman is well-versed in the safety protocols specific to their workplace and equipment. They play a vital role in enforcing these practices, ensuring all personnel follow the necessary safety guidelines during vehicle and machinery operations.
Pre-Operational Checks and Risk Assessment
Before commencing any work involving vehicles or mobile machinery, a Banksman conducts pre-operational checks to ensure the equipment is in good working condition. Additionally, they collaborate with the site management to conduct risk assessments and identify potential hazards, reducing risks before starting the task.
Traffic and Pedestrian Management
A Banksman takes charge of managing vehicle and pedestrian traffic within the work area. They establish safe routes for vehicles and ensure that pedestrians are safely guided and kept away from hazardous zones, thus reducing the chances of accidents.
Clear Communication with Operators
Effective communication is critical in a Banksman’s role. They use standardised hand signals, communication radios, or other devices to maintain clear and constant contact with drivers or operators, ensuring smooth coordination and safe execution of tasks.
Implementing Emergency Procedures
In the event of an emergency, a Banksman is trained to act swiftly and effectively. They are responsible for initiating emergency procedures, such as stopping machinery operations, guiding personnel to designated assembly points, and coordinating with emergency responders if needed.
The Importance of Banksman in Workplace Safety
A Banksman plays a vital role in promoting workplace safety in various industries. Their expertise in guiding and assisting vehicle and machinery operators significantly reduces the risk of accidents, injuries, and property damage. By enforcing safe working practices and implementing effective communication protocols, a Banksman creates a secure environment for everyone on-site.
Minimising Accidents and Injuries
The foremost importance of a Banksman lies in its ability to minimise accidents and injuries during vehicle and machinery operations. With specialised training and clear communication skills, a Banksman effectively directs operators, ensuring safe movements and manoeuvres. They provide essential guidance, particularly in situations where visibility is limited, reducing the risk of collisions, impact with obstacles, and other potential hazards.
Promoting a Safety-First Culture
A Banksman plays a pivotal role in fostering a safety-first culture within the organisation. Their dedication to enforcing safety protocols and proactive approach to risk assessment set an example for other employees. By prioritising safety in all operations, a Banksman encourages a mindset where safety becomes a shared responsibility among all personnel.
Reducing Equipment Damage and Downtime
Accidents involving vehicles and machinery can result in costly equipment damage and downtime. A Banksman help prevent such incidents by ensuring proper equipment maintenance, conducting pre-operational checks, and identifying potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach saves the organisation from unnecessary expenses and disruptions in productivity.
Ensuring Compliance with Health and Safety Regulations
Adhering to health and safety regulations is a legal and moral obligation for any organisation. A Banksman is trained in these regulations and plays a crucial role in enforcing them. Their efforts ensure that the workplace meets all safety standards, avoiding potential fines and legal liabilities.
Becoming A Banksman: Qualifications & Training
Becoming a Banksman is an excellent career choice for individuals passionate about workplace safety and interested in overseeing vehicle and mobile machinery operations. A Banksman plays a critical role in ensuring the safe movement of vehicles and machinery in various industries. Let’s explore the steps to becoming a Banksman, including any required qualifications and an overview of the typical training that an aspiring Banksman should expect.
What Are the Qualifications Required for Becoming a Banksman?
While there are no specific formal educational requirements to become a Banksman, individuals must possess certain skills and traits to excel in this role. A Banksman must have excellent communication skills to effectively interact with drivers and operators and clear and assertive hand signals for directing movements. Moreover, they must be alert, vigilant, and calm under pressure, especially in emergencies.
Most importantly, to work as a Banksman legally, individuals should receive proper training and certification. This training ensures that the Banksman has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties safely and efficiently.
What Does A Banksman Training Typically Include?
Banksman training is typically offered by specialised training providers or institutions focusing on workplace safety and heavy machinery operations. The training curriculum addresses the specific requirements of Banksman roles in various industries. Here’s an overview of what Banksman training typically covers:
Health and Safety Regulations
The training begins with a comprehensive overview of health and safety regulations relevant to the Banksman role. This includes understanding legal requirements, risk assessment procedures, and maintaining a safe work environment.
Role and Responsibilities
Aspiring Banksman are taught about their crucial role in workplace safety, including their responsibilities in directing vehicle movements, managing traffic and pedestrians, and implementing emergency procedures.
Communication Methods
Effective communication is paramount in the Banksman’s role. Training covers standardised hand signals, communication radios, and other devices that relay instructions and maintain clear contact with drivers and operators.
Pre-Operational Checks and Risk Assessment
The training program emphasises the importance of pre-operational checks on vehicles and machinery to ensure they are in good working condition. A Banksman learns to conduct risk assessments, identify potential hazards, and take proactive measures to minimise risks before commencing any task.
Vehicle and Machinery Operations
Banksman training includes practical exercises in directing vehicles and mobile machinery. Trainees learn to guide operators during tasks such as reversing, turning, and manoeuvring in confined spaces.
Traffic and Pedestrian Management
Managing traffic flow and pedestrian safety is another vital aspect of the Banksman’s role. Trainees are taught to establish safe routes, set up barriers, and direct pedestrians away from hazardous areas.
Emergency Procedures
In an emergency, a Banksman must act swiftly and decisively. The training covers various emergency scenarios and the steps to initiate emergency procedures, including stopping machinery operations and coordinating with emergency responders if required.
Certification and Ongoing Development
Upon successful completion of the Banksman training, individuals are typically awarded a certification or accreditation, validating their qualification as a Banksman. This certification proves their competence and can be essential for securing employment in this field.
Accident Investigation Training
A Banksman may need accident investigation training due to their critical role in workplace safety. Accident investigation training equips Banksman with the necessary skills to assess the root causes of accidents, identify contributing factors, and develop effective prevention strategies.
Furthermore, a Banksman should continuously engage in professional development to stay up-to-date with evolving safety practices and regulations. Regular refresher courses and additional training help Banksman sharpen their skills and enhance their expertise, ensuring they remain effective and proficient.
Conclusion
Banksman is a trained and competent professional responsible for ensuring the safe movement of vehicles and mobile machinery in various work environments. Their duties and responsibilities encompass directing activities, conducting pre-operational checks, managing traffic and pedestrians, and implementing emergency procedures. Their role is pivotal in maintaining workplace safety and minimising the risks associated with vehicle and machinery operations. Through proper training and effective communication, Banksman plays a crucial part in creating a secure work environment for everyone involved.
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