Getting the right materials to your job site, safely, to help your build run to schedule is at the core of your business – and ours.
Getting the right materials to your job site, safely, to help your build run to schedule is at the core of your business – and ours. Having a plan and understanding the risks involved with deliveries is everyone’s responsibility on site.
Preparing for a delivery
It's important to prepare your jobsite before a delivery takes place to ensure all potential hazards are identified and controlled, and the site is ready to receive the delivery. Once on site, both the builders and delivery driver need to prepare a safe lift plan together.
Tell your supplier if there are any specific site delivery requests or safety requirements at the time of booking your delivery. Keeping communication clear, open and ongoing is key.
Delivery tracking alerts
With technology ever more capable of improving safety standards, there are many ways to use it to your business advantage. Smartphone alerts are one of the ways companies keep builders on site updated on delivery progress, allowing them real time updates to track delivery timings and any related useful information. CARTERS uses text messages with a live tracking link so customers can see where their delivery truck is en route, allowing them to be prepared and ready to receive a delivery.
Creating space
Having a clear area on stable ground ready for delivery is ideal to make it fast, easy and safe to unload. Think about any overhead hazards that need to be controlled, as well as the space where the truck will park. CARTERS trucks, for example, need to position their side stabiliser legs to steady the load, so having extra space for firm footings is essential.
Do not work within four metres of a powerline, unless a close approach consent has been approved from the electrical company. These are easy to obtain and provide some protection for the Delivery Driver and other workers.
Ensure you always have sufficient clearance between the load and any obstructions, such as scaffolding, overhead powerlines or underground services.
Those receiving the delivery should know the weight of the materials load and be confident that what you’re placing it onto can hold that weight sufficiently.
Safe working areas
Setting up exclusion zones using cones, tape, barrier poles or retractable belts to keep moving vehicles and pedestrians clear of the work area is important to minimise risk.
In your Exclusion Zone aim to have five-metres clearance around the delivery vehicle at all times.
Have a designated person on site who is responsible for the unloading zone. For unmanned sites, ensure that keys or lock combinations are provided for any locked gates or areas. Mark out, or display, signs for the established unloading zone.
Clear any obstacles from the accessway and unloading zone and make sure all builders/subbies on site are aware of the delivery exclusion/unload zone and that they keep the area clear.
