20 Backing the Apparatus

Question 1

What three activities will prevent most backing crashes?

Answer 1

1. Use of spotters
2. Thorough walk-around of apparatus
3. defensive parking tactics

Question 2

Suggestions and recommendations made throughout the trucking industry to reduce crashes:

Answer 2

1. Park Defensively
2. Use mirrors and understand blind spots
3. Mirrors are properly adjusted
4. If blind spots, make sure to use spotters
5. When backing without spotters, conduct a walk-around immediately before backing
6. Easier to see with driver’s side than passenger side mirror

Question 3

More suggestions for backing

Answer 3

7. If it has them, learn to use backing cameras
8. Use spotters whenever possible
9. Make sure spotter doesn’t get distracted
10. If driver loses sight of the spotter, stop immediately
11. If multiple spotters, make sure only one communicates with driver
12. Spotters need high-visibility clothing

Question 4

There’s more backing recommendations

Answer 4

13. Spotters shouldn’t walk behind or in apparatus’s path of travel
14. Spotters should avoid walking backwards
15. Be aware of overhead and ground hazards
16. Environmental conditions may create a sight obstruction between driver and spotter
17. At night, use flashlights to direct driver
18. Discuss driver’s plan for maneuvering the apparatus

Question 5

The last of the recommendations:

Answer 5

19. Be aware of sun glare when using mirrors
20. Be cognizant of how changing light conditions will affect driver’s ability to see while backing into station
21. Ensure back-up alarms and emergency stop devices are working
22. Keep apparatus bays clear of hazards and obstructions