Lansing, MI — In response to a “troubling rise” in struck-by fatalities on jobsites in the state, Michigan OSHA has issued a hazard bulletin.
Between Jan. 16 and July 4, MIOSHA recorded five worker deaths resulting from struck-by incidents. That’s more than half of the workplace deaths investigated this year by the agency, which operates as a State Plan program under federal OSHA.
“Employers are responsible for ensuring workers are protected from moving vehicles, heavy equipment and other struck-by hazards on the jobsite,” the bulletin states. “This includes maintaining safe work zones, enforcing traffic control procedures, and ensuring workers are visible and alert.”
MIOSHA urges employers and workers to slow down, take extra precautions and pay attention.
Other tips:
- Stay alert when working around vehicles or machinery, as operators may have limited visibility.
- Designate trained spotters when operating or moving equipment in congested areas or backing up.
- Create and maintain pedestrian-free zones around equipment and vehicle operation paths.
- Use barricades, cones and signs to separate workers from moving vehicles.
- Use radios, hand signals or flaggers when visibility is limited or multiple trades are active.
- Make sure workers are wearing reflective vests and clothing so they can be seen, especially in low-light or high-traffic environments.
