Safety Guidelines

Definition of Safety:

Safety is the condition of being safe from undergoing or causing hurt, injury, or loss. It means avoiding accidents by being careful with what you are doing, whether you are walking, driving or cycling.

Definition of Safety Guidelines:

Safety guidelines are a set of rules, in the form of information, that help in promoting safety, by preventing hazards and accidents.

If safety rules are followed and adhered to, accidents are less likely to occur.

Safety Guidelines for Pedestrians:

A pedestrian is a person walking along the road, especially where there are cars.

The following safety guidelines apply to pedestrians;

• Pedestrians should use pedestrian bridges where available.

• Before crossing the road, pedestrians should look left, right and look left again. When there is an opportunity and the road is clear, walk quickly across but keep looking out.

• Pedestrians should wear bright coloured clothing while walking on the road at night.

• While crossing the road a pedestrian should be at full attention and not distracted by their phones, that means no texting, picking up calls or listening to music.

• A pedestrian should also try as much as possible to make eye contact with drivers before crossing.

Safety Guidelines for Motorists:

A motorist is a person who drives a vehicle such as a such as a bus, car, or truck.

The following safety guidelines apply to motorists;

• A motorist should never drink alcohol before and when driving.

• Motorists need to be aware of pedestrians and bikes.

• While driving, a motorist should never make or receive calls, send messages via text or surf the internet.

• A motorist must always obey road signs, traffic lights, and road markings.

• Always ensure there is a fire extinguisher in the vehicle in the case of an emergency.

• A motorist must keep their car maintained and serviced regularly.

• Before changing lanes, when reversing or braking, a motorist should always use side mirrors.

• A seat belt should be worn at all times.

• Motorists should drive at moderate speeds and should never go over the speed limit of a particular area.

• Motorists should slow down when approaching intersections, and junctions, especially where traffic is not being regulated.

Safety Guidelines for Cyclists and Motor Cyclists:

A motorcyclist is a person who rides a motorcycle and a cyclist is usually referred to as a person who rides a bicycle.

The following safety guidelines apply to cyclists and motorcyclists;

• Protective materials like helmets, knee pads and elbow pads should be used.

• They should observe all road signs.

• Take care when passing parked cars, leaving enough space for drivers and passengers to open car doors.

• Motorcycles should be properly maintained.

• Alcohol shouldn’t be consumed before and during a ride.

• Always ride in a position where you can see and be seen.

• Reflective clothing should be worn at night so cyclists and motorists can stand out to the drivers.

• Do not exceed the speed limit.

• Check brakes before every ride. Always make sure brake components are properly positioned and in good working order.