1. Vehicle and Plant Safety Basics - Construction Regulations 23(1)(a–c)
All construction vehicles and mobile plant must be:
- Of acceptable design and construction, suitable for the type of work being carried out.
- Maintained in a good working condition through regular servicing and inspections.
- Used in accordance with the manufacturer's intended design, with consideration for the specific health and safety risks present on site.
2. Competency and Fitness of Operators - Construction Regulations 23(1)(d)
Only trained and authorized individuals may operate construction vehicles and plant. Operators must:
- Have proof of competency through accredited training and certification.
- Hold a valid medical certificate of fitness issued by an Occupational Health Practitioner, as per Annexure 3 of the Regulations.
- Be authorized in writing to operate the equipment.
3. Safe Access, Control, and Movement - Construction Regulations 23(1)(e–g)
Contractors must ensure:
- Safe access to and from vehicles/plant with steps, handrails, and anti-slip surfaces.
- Effective site traffic control, using trained signallers, flagmen, or traffic marshals, to coordinate movement and reduce the risk of collisions.
- Edge protection, like guardrails or barriers, around excavations or raised areas to prevent vehicles from falling.
4. Operator Protection and Warning Systems - Construction Regulations 23(1)(h–j)
All construction vehicles and mobile plant must:
- Be fitted with:
- An audible acoustic warning device (e.g., horn or beeper).
- An automatic acoustic reversing alarm, alerting others when the vehicle is reversing.
5. Daily Checks and Records - Construction Regulations 23(1)(k)
Before starting work each day, the operator must perform a daily inspection using a checklist. Findings should be:
- Recorded in a logbook or register stored on the vehicle or plant.
6. Preventing Unsafe Practices - Construction Regulations 23(2)(a–c)
The contractor must:
- Ensure that no unauthorized persons ride on construction vehicles unless safe seating is provided.
- Design site layouts to separate pedestrians and vehicle routes wherever reasonably practicable.
- Provide clearly marked traffic routes that are suitable for the type and size of vehicles used.
7. Night Safety and Parking Rules - Construction Regulations 23(2)(e–f)
At night or during non-operational hours:
- Vehicles must have reflectors or warning lights when left near roads or active work areas.
- When not in use, vehicles must be:
- Parked with attachments lowered,
- Controls in neutral,
- Brakes engaged,
- Engine off, and
- Ignition keys secured.
8. Visibility and Lighting - Construction Regulations 23(2)(g)
In low visibility conditions, vehicles must be equipped with:
- At least two headlights and two taillights, especially when operating early mornings, during fog, or in poorly lit areas.
9. Safe Transport of Workers and Materials - Construction Regulations 23(2)(h–i)
When construction vehicles transport both workers and materials:
- A physical barrier must separate the two to prevent movement and injury.
- All seats must be securely fixed and sufficient in number for the employees being transported.
10. Road-Readiness - Construction Regulations 23(2)(j)
Vehicles and plant that travel or operate on public roads must also comply with the National Road Traffic Act, 1996, including licensing, roadworthiness, and signal compliance.
Site Safety Is Mobile Safety
Construction Regulation 23 places a legal responsibility on contractors to not only maintain and operate equipment safely but also to proactively manage risk by ensuring operator competency, daily inspections, and effective traffic planning. From daily checklists to designated walkways and certified operators, the small details are what prevent big accidents.
ZSC helps you integrate safety into your project design, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are met, and your project proceeds without safety concerns. Contact us to learn how we can make your project safer and compliant from start to finish on 021 010 0209 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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