What do you need to consider when a delivery driver is coming to your construction site? Do they require an induction? Unfortunately, it's not a one-size-fits-all situation. It really depends on a number of factors, so let us explain why.
It's important to understand what delivery will be taking place and whether the delivery driver/s will be performing work on-site. Consider the risks associated with the delivery and their interaction with the construction site.
Important Note: Work on, in, or adjacent to a road or other traffic corridor used by traffic other than pedestrians is considered high-risk work. Therefore, a Task Analysis is required prior to work commencing. Be aware of this when planning how deliveries will be made and whether they can impact traffic.
Induction Site-specific induction training provides information about work health and safety issues and safe work practices specific to the construction site. A key part of an induction is to ensure that each person carrying out construction work is made aware of the safety plan (also known as SSSP) contents and the site-specific rules before commencing work.
Depending on the type of delivery and work being performed, a site-specific induction may not be required. For example, delivery drivers on-site for a short time for low-risk delivery may not need one. However, they still need to receive any site-specific information, such as hazards they may encounter, site safety rules, emergency contacts, where to unload, etc. Sharing the safety plan and/or being accompanied at all times by a fully inducted Supervisor/site contact during the delivery could be an option in these instances.
Our Recommendation
When it comes to induction requirements for delivery drivers, plan ahead. Look at what deliveries will occur in the future and assess them case by case. Discuss with the delivery/supplier company about how the delivery will take place and consider the associated hazards and risks. Remember to consider both the hazards introduced by the delivery and the site hazards the delivery driver may be exposed to while on-site.
What hazards could exist? Here are just a few to consider:
Overhead services and the height of trucks moving around the site, and unloading practices
Movement of powered mobile plant used during unloading
Traffic management entering the site, in and around the site, and exiting the site (interaction with workers, members of the public, etc.)
Terrain, ground conditions, and underground services
Manual handling during unloading and moving materials around the site
If you're still not sure about an upcoming delivery and what you need to do, that's okay. Give our Health and Safety Advisory team a call on 0800 555 339 to discuss further if you would like to know how to manage pre-qualification for delivery drivers check out our other help article for this.