7180-4

Back Up Alarm Systems

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Back up alarm systems are safety devices used on bi-directional vehicles and equipment, (those having a reverse gear). Bi-directional vehicles and equipment with an obstructed rear view are a safety concern. Because employee safety and the safety of the public are paramount, the Department has adopted the following policy.

1. Off road equipment and any rolling stock exceeding 8,600 gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) cargo capacity which have a reverse gear and have an obstructed rear view that cannot be adequately/reasonably addressed with the placement of mirrors shall be equipped with a back up alarm system.
2. The operator shall be responsible for testing the back-up alarm at the beginning and end of each work day to ensure that the system is working properly. The presence of a back up alarm system does not replace the need for a "spotter" (employee) and does not relieve the operator/driver of the responsibility for the safe backing of the vehicle/equipment.
3. Any equipment/vehicle requiring a back up alarm system shall be backed with the assistance of a spotter when available. If the operator is alone in the equipment/vehicle, he/she should take the precaution of stopping/parking only in areas that allow movement of the equipment/vehicle without backing. If a spotter is not available the operator shall walk around the equipment/vehicle to determine that the path is clear for backing. In all cases the operator/driver bears complete responsibility for insuring that the path behind their equipment/vehicle is clear for backing. However, if a spotter is available, the spotter shall assist the driver to safely back the equipment/vehicle. In the event of an accident the spotter and driver may both receive points based on the Incident Matrix Point System.
4. In the event an installed back up alarm system becomes inoperable, the system should be repaired, replaced in the field or brought into a repair shop the same day the system is identified as inoperable. If the equipment must be operated or moved before repairs can be made, a spotter shall be used for backing. If the system cannot be repaired the day it becomes inoperable, the vehicle/equipment shall be downed until the alarm system is repaired/replaced. District Special Outfits field mechanics shall carry one back-up alarm as a spare in the event specialized equipment has a defective back-up alarm.
5. Disciplinary action, which may include dismissal from employment, may be taken with respect to any operator/driver and/or supervisor of the operator/driver who knowingly or willfully violates this policy.

Reference:

Incident Matrix Point System
Safety Incident and Accident Review Policy No. 7180-9

Document History:

• added to TOPPS: 04/21/03
• reviewed: 09/29/06

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