Overview
Nearly a quarter of workplace transport deaths involve reversing vehicles. A trained banksman uses recognised hand signals and safe systems of work to direct drivers, keep pedestrians clear and eliminate blind-spot risk. This course teaches the role and responsibilities of a banksman, correct hand signals, safe positioning and how to apply traffic management controls to prevent struck-by incidents.
What you’ll learn
By the end of this course your team will be able to:
- Explain the role and responsibilities of a banksman or vehicle signaller
- Identify the hazards associated with reversing and manoeuvring vehicles in the workplace
- Demonstrate knowledge of the standard, recognised hand signals for guiding vehicles
- Describe how to position yourself safely to remain visible and out of danger
- Apply safe systems of work and segregation measures to manage workplace transport risk
- Recognise the legal duties on employers to manage vehicle and pedestrian interaction
Who is this course for?
Banksmen, vehicle marshals, warehouse and yard operatives, logistics and delivery staff, construction site workers and supervisors responsible for managing workplace transport routes.
Legal & compliance context
Employers have duties to manage workplace transport risk under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which require safe organisation of traffic routes and separation of vehicles and pedestrians. Where vehicles reverse near people, providing trained, competent banksmen is a recognised means of meeting that duty.
Course content
- Introduction to workplace transport risk
- The role of the banksman and signaller
- Standard hand signals and communication
- Safe positioning and maintaining visibility
- Reversing, blind spots and exclusion zones
- Safe systems of work and traffic management
- Final assessment and certificate
Format & certification
- CPD-accredited eLearning
- Self-paced, typically 45 to 60 minutes
- Works on any device (desktop, tablet, mobile)
- Personalised certificate to download instantly on completion
Frequently asked questions
Is this course accredited?
Yes. It is CPD accredited and awards a personalised certificate on completion.
Is banksman training a legal requirement?
Employers have a legal duty to manage workplace transport risk. Where vehicles reverse or manoeuvre near people, providing trained banksmen is a key way to meet that duty.
Can I train my whole team?
Yes. Multiple licences are available with volume discounts, and completions can be assigned and tracked in the LMS.
What does a banksman do?
A banksman guides drivers as they reverse or manoeuvre vehicles using recognised hand signals, while keeping pedestrians and themselves clear of danger.