Struck-By Equipment Toolbox Talk
Struck-by prevention starts with separation. Set equipment routes, blind-spot controls, spotter expectations, swing-radius zones, and communication before people and machines share space.
Last reviewed by Ben SleemanCredentialed safety reviewer
29 CFR 1926 Subpart O and task-specific equipment rules
When people and equipment share space, we need a traffic plan. Operators have blind spots. Workers on foot can move into danger faster than an operator can see and react.
Stay out of swing radius and backing zones. Make eye contact or use agreed signals before approaching equipment. Spotters must stay visible and avoid standing between equipment and fixed objects.
If the route, visibility, noise, or ground condition changes, stop and reset the plan. No load, bucket, or schedule is worth guessing around moving equipment.
Incident example
A worker crossed behind a loader to retrieve a tool while the operator was repositioning. The backup alarm was sounding, but another machine drowned it out. The traffic plan did not separate foot traffic from the equipment route.
Controls to cover
Set and communicate equipment routes before work starts.
Use exclusion zones around swing radius and backing areas.
Keep spotters visible and out of pinch points.
Stop work when visibility, alarms, or communication are not working.
Crew discussion
Where will workers on foot cross equipment routes today?
Who is spotting, and what signals are being used?
What area is off limits during equipment movement?
3-question quiz
What is the best struck-by control?
Separation between people and moving equipment.
Where should a spotter never stand?
Between moving equipment and a fixed object or pinch point.
What should happen if the operator loses sight of the spotter?
Stop equipment movement until communication is restored.
Need the OSHA rule behind the talk?
Use the dated OSHA for Construction field guide for current penalty amounts, inspection steps, recordkeeping guidance, and the heat rule’s real status.
Sources and review notes
The safety content, regulatory citations, and downloadable resources completed named credentialed safety review on . Confirm current requirements before relying on them at the jobsite.
Common questions.
What is a struck-by hazard?
Do backup alarms replace spotters?
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