Banksman directing an HGV reversing manoeuvre using a stop hand signal

This safety-awareness course explains how a trained banksman and driver coordinate haulage vehicle manoeuvres while controlling blind spots, trailer movement, exclusion zones, communication and stop-work decisions.

What you will cover

  • Workplace transport risk and when banksman control is appropriate.
  • Driver, banksman and supervisor responsibilities.
  • Route planning, vehicle geometry and protected exclusion zones.
  • Safe positioning, visibility, blind spots and loss-of-sight rules.
  • Standard START, STOP, DANGER, END, direction and distance signals.
  • Controlled reversing, close approach and vehicle securing.
  • Radio protocol, visiting drivers and changing conditions.
  • Stop work, reporting, practical assessment and authorisation.

Course structure

Complete eight lessons followed by a course-level 12-question final assessment. The pass mark is 80% (at least 10 correct), and retakes are permitted.

Scope boundary: this course supports awareness. It does not by itself prove practical banksman competence or authorise a person to control vehicles.

Course Content

1. Workplace Transport Risk and When to Use a Banksman
2. Driver, Banksman and Supervisor Responsibilities
3. Plan and Prepare the Manoeuvring Area
4. Safe Position, Visibility and Blind Spots
5. Standard Signals and Agreed Meanings
6. Control Reversing and Close Approach
7. Radios, Visiting Drivers and Changing Conditions
8. Stop Work, Close Out, Reporting and Competence
Final Quiz
Banksman Hand Signals (Haulage) – Final Assessment