Snowplow Vehicle Awareness

Key Hazards

• Pedestrians or vehicles struck by snowplows
• Blind spots created by plow blades, mirrors, snow piles, and weather
• Plow blades, wings, or spreaders striking objects or vehicles
• Low visibility from snow, darkness, blowing conditions, or fogged glass
• Reduced traction during turning, braking, or backing
• Workers standing too close to operating snow removal equipment

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Snowplow vehicles are larger and harder to see around than they may appear. Plow blades, spreaders, wings, mirrors, and snow piles can all create blind spots and clearance hazards.

Workers and pedestrians should stay well clear of operating snowplows unless they are part of the task and in communication with the operator.

Operators should inspect the truck and plow equipment before use. Lights, mirrors, backup alarms, strobes, wipers, defrosters, plow controls, hydraulics, cutting edges, and spreaders should be checked.

Plow blades and wings extend beyond the normal vehicle width. Operators should allow extra clearance around parked vehicles, curbs, signs, mailboxes, buildings, pedestrians, and equipment.

Snow piles can hide people, vehicles, hydrants, curbs, drains, bollards, and drop-offs. Operators should avoid assuming an area is clear just because it was clear earlier.

Backing should be minimized. When backing is necessary, operators should check the area, move slowly, use cameras and mirrors, and use a spotter when conditions allow.

Low visibility and reduced traction require slower speeds and more stopping distance.

Safe snowplow vehicle awareness depends on separation, visibility, slower movement, checking blind spots, accounting for plow width, and keeping workers away from active snow removal areas.

Safety Reminders

• Stay clear of operating snowplows.
• Inspect plow vehicles before use.
• Account for plow blade, wing, and spreader width.
• Watch for hidden obstacles in snow piles.
• Minimize backing when possible.
• Use lights, strobes, mirrors, and spotters when needed.
• Slow down for reduced visibility and traction.

Ask the Crew

• What blind spots are created by the plow setup?
• Are pedestrians or parked vehicles near the plow route?
• Could snow piles hide obstacles or people?
• Can backing be avoided or controlled?
• Are visibility and traction good enough for safe operation?