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HygieneReady

Banksman and Traffic Marshal Awareness: syllabus

United Kingdom version. Last updated 31 October 2026.

3 online modules, each with a real-life scenario and a short quiz, then a final test of 12 questions. Pass with 9 correct answers in 20 minutes. Refresher training is recommended every 3 years.

  1. Module 1. The role of the banksman

    A banksman (also called a vehicle marshal, signaller or traffic marshal) guides vehicles when the driver cannot see clearly, most often when reversing.

    What you will learn

    • Explain why reversing is so dangerous.
    • Describe the banksman's role.
    • Describe the legal duties.

    Key points

    • Many vehicle deaths happen during reversing.
    • Avoid reversing by design first; use a banksman when it cannot be avoided.
    • Only one trained, authorised banksman signals to a driver.

    Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992; Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015; Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996; HSE guidance HSG136.

  2. Module 2. Signals and communication

    Clear, agreed signals let the driver and banksman work together safely.

    What you will learn

    • Agree signals with the driver before starting.
    • Use standard hand signals.
    • Use radios correctly where needed.

    Key points

    • Agree signals first, wear hi-vis and stay visible in the driver's mirror.
    • Use standard hand signals; crossed arms above the head means emergency stop.
    • If the driver cannot see the banksman, the driver stops.

    Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992; Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015; Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996; HSE guidance HSG136.

  3. Module 3. Working safely as a banksman

    Good banksmen plan the manoeuvre, control the area and stay safe themselves.

    What you will learn

    • Check the area before a manoeuvre.
    • Control pedestrians and hazards.
    • Stay safe while guiding vehicles.

    Key points

    • Plan: walk the route and check for people, overhead hazards and obstacles.
    • Keep pedestrians out and stop if anyone enters the danger zone.
    • Stay visible, keep an escape route and give your full attention.

    Based on: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974; Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992; Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015; Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996; HSE guidance HSG136.

HygieneReady certificates confirm completion of training. They are not a regulated qualification. Definitions of the key terms are in the glossary.