These regulations regulate the manner in which construction/construction sites are managed and all persons involved in construction work. They must be read in conjunction with the OHSA. Some of the more important definitions to note are: “Agent”; “Client”; “Competent person”; “Construction manager”; “Construction supervisor”; “Construction work”; “Designer”; “Excavation work”; “Structure”. Please note that there are more definitions that may be relevant. It is important to understand these as they may impact on your compliance requirements.
This regulation sets out what requirements need to be met with regard to construction vehicles and mobile plant.
Compliance Obligations?
Contractors must ensure that all construction vehicles and mobile plant are of an acceptable design and construction and are maintained in good working order. The vehicles must be operated by a person who has received the requisite training, is certified competent and is in possession of proof of competency whereby he/she is authorised in writing to operate those construction vehicles.
The operator also needs a medical certificate of fitness to operate the construction vehicles and it needs to be issued by an occupational health practitioner. The vehicles need to be fitted with structures that are designed to protect the operator from being crushed should the vehicle overturn or from material that may fall. The vehicles must be fitted with an acoustic warning device which can be activated by the operator and an acoustic reversing alarm. Construction vehicles must be inspected by the operator or driver on a daily basis using a checklist prior to use. Records of these findings need to be kept in a register on the construction vehicle.
Contractor further needs to consult the requirements listed in regulation 23(2)(a)-(j).