04 November 2024
In the UK, urban areas see thousands of construction vehicles navigating busy streets every day. These vehicles, while essential for infrastructure and development, bring an inherent risk to road safety—particularly for vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians. Recognizing these risks, the Construction Logistics and Community Safety (CLOCS) initiative was established to improve safety practices within the construction industry, aiming to reduce collisions and create safer environments for everyone on the road.
What is CLOCS?
CLOCS, or Construction Logistics and Community Safety, is a nationwide initiative launched to address the risks associated with construction logistics and promote safer practices for both workers and the general public. Developed in collaboration with construction companies, fleet operators, and local governments, CLOCS sets a new standard for the industry by focusing on several key areas of improvement, including vehicle design, driver training, and site safety measures.
CLOCS goes beyond compliance, aiming to change industry culture to prioritize safety in all aspects of construction logistics. By implementing CLOCS standards, businesses not only contribute to safer urban environments but also align with other regulatory standards, such as the Direct Vision Standard (DVS) and Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme (FORS), creating a comprehensive safety strategy.
Why Was CLOCS Created?
The need for CLOCS arose from a concerning pattern of collisions between construction vehicles and vulnerable road users. These incidents highlighted several critical areas where improvements could reduce risks, such as:
- Blind Spots in Large Vehicles: Construction vehicles often have limited visibility, increasing the risk of accidents with pedestrians and cyclists.
- Driver Awareness and Training: Improving driver training to identify and respond to risks is essential for safe operation in congested urban areas.
- Site Safety Standards: Construction sites near public roads must adopt safe practices to minimize hazards to those on the roads.
The CLOCS initiative was born out of these needs, creating a framework for safer practices that benefit not only the construction sector but also the communities in which they operate.
Key Components of the CLOCS Standard
To achieve its goals, CLOCS sets out several key requirements for construction logistics companies:
Vehicle Safety Equipment:
- Construction vehicles must be equipped with safety features that improve visibility, such as additional mirrors, proximity sensors, and cameras. Enhanced lighting and high-visibility signage also contribute to reducing collision risks.
Driver Training:
- CLOCS emphasizes the importance of regular driver training focused on urban driving and the challenges of working near vulnerable road users. Drivers are trained to recognize potential hazards and respond effectively, ensuring they operate with safety as a top priority.
Safer Construction Sites:
- Construction sites located near public roads are required to implement safety measures that protect pedestrians and other road users. This includes clear signage, safe access routes, and defined vehicle movement protocols.
Improved Logistics Planning:
- Effective logistics planning helps to minimize the time construction vehicles spend in high-risk areas. CLOCS encourages route planning to avoid peak traffic times and areas with high volumes of pedestrians and cyclists.
The Role of CLOCS in Today’s Construction Industry
With cities growing denser and more people relying on alternative transportation methods like cycling, CLOCS plays a crucial role in making urban spaces safer. By establishing clear, actionable standards for construction logistics, CLOCS encourages companies to implement best practices that protect all road users.
For construction firms, CLOCS compliance not only enhances road safety but also positions them as responsible industry players, contributing to a positive corporate image and fostering trust among clients and partners.
How Dun-Bri Group Supports CLOCS Compliance
At Dun-Bri Group, we understand the importance of safety and compliance in the construction sector. Our extensive range of products supports CLOCS standards, helping construction logistics companies enhance visibility, improve driver awareness, and reduce incident risks. From high-performance LED lighting solutions to state-of-the-art camera systems, our products are designed with safety in mind.
- Enhanced Visibility Solutions: Our range of strobe lights, indicators, and reflective signage helps vehicles stand out in crowded urban settings, meeting CLOCS’s visibility requirements.
- Blind Spot Monitoring and Warning Systems: We offer proximity sensors, backup alarms, and cameras that help drivers monitor blind spots, enhancing situational awareness and reducing the risk of accidents.
By integrating our products into their fleets, companies can effectively support CLOCS compliance while demonstrating a commitment to safer urban logistics.
Conclusion
The CLOCS initiative is reshaping the construction logistics sector, prioritizing the safety of both workers and the public. By adopting CLOCS standards, businesses can contribute to safer cities, reduce accident rates, and enhance their reputations as leaders in safety. For companies looking to achieve CLOCS compliance, Dun-Bri Group offers a comprehensive selection of safety solutions tailored to meet industry standards and support a safer future for all road users.