At a plywood mill, a loader with a grapple attachment was carrying peeled logs to the vats for soaking. Unknown to the loader operator, a worker had entered one of the vats and was standing just inside the entrance as the loader approached. The worker did not communicate his presence to the loader operator, and the operator's field of vision was limited by the elevated load of logs and the lack of lighting inside the vat. As the loader entered the vat, the worker inside was struck by the load of logs. His injuries were fatal.

• Provide safe work procedures for all workers who must enter areas where mobile equipment is working.
• Provide designated walkways for pedestrian traffic where possible.
  
• Alternatively, use traffic control or other means of communication with mobile equipment operators before
  pedestrians enter a hazardous area.
• Do not permit workers to take shortcuts across areas where mobile equipment is working.
• When operating mobile
  equipment, carry the load
  no higher than necessary,
  so your vision is limited as
  little as possible.

The art demonstrates the position of the worker as he
came out of the vat after being struck by the load of logs.

The film Fields of Vision shows the difficulties that operators of mobile equipment have in seeing pedestrians. You can borrow a copy from your WorkSafeBC regional office. Fields of Vision is also available for purchase in video (VHS) or DVD format from WorkSafeBC at 1 866 319-9704 or online at www.worksafebcstore.com.