vehicle safety summary British columbia

British Columbia's vehicle safety compliance is regulated under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. Part 17 addresses the transportation of workers and includes requirements for vehicle design, maintenance, and operation. Key aspects include general responsibilities, seating and seat belt requirements, and employer/operator duties to ensure safe transit. [2] [2] [2]

Vehicles primarily transporting workers must be suited for the environment, strongly built, have operable doors, emergency exits, non-slip steps, adequate brakes, first aid equipment, and a fire extinguisher. [1]

Off-road vehicles must have service brakes capable of holding on maximum slopes, primary and secondary braking systems, and a mechanical parking brake capable of holding the vehicle on a 15% slope. [1]

The operator must ensure the vehicle is inspected before each shift and that all occupants use seat belts properly. The vehicle must be operated by a licensed driver, with doors closed while in motion, and parking brakes engaged when unattended. [3] [3]

Workers are restricted from riding in a standing position unless protected or with body parts outside the vehicle unless adequately restrained. Equipment must be secured to prevent injury. [3] [3]

Roads used for transporting workers in forestry operations must be safely constructed and maintained. Hazards such as dangerous trees and unstable materials must be cleared from roadsides. [4] [4]

Mobile equipment must have functioning brakes, including primary, secondary, and parking brake systems. Operators must be protected from falling objects and tipovers by appropriate protective structures that meet specific safety standards. [5] [6]

Traffic control measures, including traffic control plans, risk assessments, and adherence to the Traffic Management Manual, are essential when traffic could pose a hazard to workers. [8] [8] [8]

High-visibility apparel is required for workers exposed to vehicles or mobile equipment, with specific standards based on vehicle speed. [9]

When lift trucks are used, operator training must meet specific standards, and the trucks must be inspected and maintained regularly. Loads must be handled to ensure stability. [7] [7] [7]

Traffic control persons require Board-approved training programs, and traffic assistants need workplace training addressing specific hazards. [12] [11]

Underground workings require a written traffic control scheme to ensure awareness between workers and equipment operators. Clear spaces must be provided for safe passage, or safety stations must be excavated. [10] [10] [10]