The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is advising those who drive for work to be particularly vigilant for the presence of children on and near roads. With schools closed for the summer, more children will be out and about in areas that may normally be quiet during the school term.
According to Deirdre Sinnott, Senior Inspector with the Health and Safety Authority, “More children will be out playing in residential areas during the day when deliveries/collections are being made and there’ll be a general increase in the presence of children on or near roads. Anyone driving as part of their work should be particularly alert for children, whether on foot or on bicycles.”
Deirdre Sinnott is advising drivers not to be tempted to take young children with them in the cabs of trucks and other workplace vehicles. “Workplace vehicles are not appropriate places for children. Delivery yards, warehouses, etc. can pose serious dangers for children who may be tempted to explore when waiting on a parent or guardian to complete their work.”
In the last seven years (2003-2009) 12 children have died in work related incidents involving vehicles, a source of great concern to the Authority. Employers must have clear procedures and rules in place regarding who can and can’t be carried in their vehicles when used for work purposes.
