Labour department amps up rules in mechanical handling safety in container yards

New rules will take effect on 16 December.

Starting 16 December, proprietors of container yards will be required to install reversing video devices on front loaders and reach stackers, the Labour Department announced.

The new rule was published under the revised code of practice on mechanical handling safety in container yards.

“Front loaders and reach stackers are commonly used in container yards for handling containers. When operating these large machines, the vision of those who operate them may be obstructed by the huge bodies of the machines and they may not be able to observe the entire rear condition, even with rearview mirrors installed,” the government said. 

“Workers have been struck by reversing front loaders or reach stackers, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities,” the government added.

The government warned that individuals who fail to observe the new provision “may be taken by a court in determining whether or not a person has breached the relevant safety and health legislation.”