We all know the dangers of using mobile phones whilst at the wheel of a vehicle; the reason being is the phone is a distraction and reduces our concentration when undertaking a potentially dangerous activity. But how many of us or our staff consider the risks when moving around the workplace and especially when around workplace transport?

A recent incident highlighted by a HSE prosecution should serve as a warning to businesses that risk assessments should also consider the possibility of mobile phones being used and consider whether the risks can be effectively controlled or perhaps ban the use of mobiles in some areas.

An Ebbw Vale packaging company has been has been fined for safety failings after a delivery driver was hit by a forklift truck at its premises. The court heard that a delivery driver visited Platt Packaging Ltd to collect pallets of products for distribution.

While his lorry was being loaded the driver was on a telephone call with his employer, a freight company, and was standing nearby with his back to the vehicle.  Suddenly he was struck by the reversing forklift truck and knocked to the ground. He suffered a double fracture to his left ankle, damage to his leg and spent over a month in hospital. He has been unable to return to work.

The HSE investigation found that Platt Packaging had no formal safe system of work in place for delivery operations at the site. The company also failed to provide instructions for delivery drivers to be in a place of safety while the forklift truck was being used.

Platt Packaging Limited, of Ebbw Vale, Gwent, was fined a total of £10,000 and ordered to pay £4,663 in costs after pleading guilty to breaching Section 3(1) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

The HSE inspector leading the case commented that the dangers associated with workplace transport are well-documented in the industry. Incidents involving moving vehicles and pedestrians on the same site have resulted in major injuries, and even fatalities in the workplace. It was clear that had Platt Packaging provided a basic safety requirements then the incident would not have happened and the man would not have been injured.

Perhaps it’s time for you to heed this warning and look at how you control hazardous activities and make sure you have suitable controls in place.