New Morrison Utility Services safety Initiative to minimise risk around Plant

Morrison Utility Services (MUS), the UK’s largest, dedicated, independent utility service provider, in conjunction with M Group Services Plant & Fleet Solutions, has launched the People & Plant Interface, designed to drive best practice for people working in the vicinity of plant.

The initiative will include the introduction of a plant interface zone system (yellow, amber and red) denoting increase in level of risk. The system will see all people and plant/vehicle interfaces planned and controlled by the application of defined plant segregation areas and a hierarchy of associated risk control measures.

A new pocket-sized booklet has also been produced to reinforce the campaign’s key messages to employees. Core Plant Interface Zone posters have also been produced for display in MUS depots. The posters provide guidance on interface with all manner of plant from mini excavators through to grab wagons.

Director of M Group Services Plant & Fleet Solutions Jeremy Harrison comments: “The Health & Safety Executive reports that over 5,000 accidents involving mobile plant in the workplace occur each year, with approximately 50 of these resulting in death. This initiative aims to raise awareness of this important area of risk and identify the main causes of injury to enable our people to take the necessary precautions when dealing with plant.”

MUS SHEQ Director Paul Kerridge adds: “The People & Plant Interface initiative focuses on what is a major safety issue across our industry and provide drivers, operators and operatives with additional procedural and behavioural safety guidance for this important area of our operations.”