Construction logistics firms have been urged to follow the lead of one waste disposal company which has introduced a new type of skip loader to its fleet, said to be safer for vulnerable road users. 

 

The Mercedes Benz Econic vehicle is thought to be the first vehicle of its kind to be put to work in the UK. It was unveiled by waste management firm O’Donovan at last week’s Construction Logistics & Cyclist Safety (CLOCS) exhibition in London.

 

The vehicle provides the driver with an unparalleled view of vulnerable road users. It has a wide field of vision, a fully glazed floor to ceiling ‘bus style’ nearside door and a lowered driving position, which puts the driver at eye level with both cyclists and pedestrians.

 

The glazed door also provides direct visibility of the nearside blind spot, a particularly vulnerable position for cyclists.

 

London’s Transport Commissioner Mike Brown said: “I congratulate the company for being one of the first in London of its size to use these potentially life saving construction vehicles. I encourage all companies to follow O’Donovan’s lead and use these vehicles where they can.”

 

The company has also fitted a range of additional CLOCS safety features to the vehicles including, but not limited to a side scan system and left hand turn audible alarm.

 

“The whole purpose of CLOCS is about resolute steps and cultural change to reduce the road danger posed by construction industry vehicles,” said the company’s managing director Jacqueline O’Donovan.

 

“We are keen to ensure we are making the best choices to help further protect vulnerable road users.”

 

(Photo: O’Donovan Waste Disposal)