Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Assessment

Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation

About:

In a recent collaboration with Melbourne Arts Precinct Corporation, Modus Traffic and Transport Engineering has effectively improved the safety and functionality of Federation Square’s loading dock area. Overcoming challenges, our team takes pride in creating a safer and more efficient environment for all stakeholders.

Challenges:

Through a comprehensive redesign, the following challenges were addressed to create a safer and more efficient environment.

· Limited space and conflicting user needs: Balancing the needs of pedestrians, forklifts, and drivers in a confined area posed a significant challenge.

· Unclear traffic flow and right-of-way: The lack of clear markings and designated zones led to confusion and potential safety hazards.

· Inadequate signage: Existing signage might have been insufficient or poorly placed, hindering clear communication of information and safety protocols.

· Presence of a raised platform: Safely incorporating the existing raised platform into the loading dock environment required innovative solutions.

· Close vehicle encounters: Implementing measures to prevent close encounters between forklifts and vehicles within the loading dock was critical for enhancing overall safety.

Solutions:

Given the limited space in the loading dock area and the need to ensure smooth operations for both forklifts, pedestrians and drivers, the proposed key enhancements include:

· Clearly defined walkways, shared zones, and crossings: This separates the movement of pedestrians, forklifts, and vehicles, reducing conflicts and improving flow.

· Enhanced traffic flow management: Implement clear line markings and designated give-way points areas to address confusion.

· Revised signage and strategic locations: Enhanced up-to-date signage with clear instructions and strategically placed at crucial points improves communication of safety protocols and promotes awareness.

· Safe and efficient platform integration: Implementation of a new compact lift-a-way gate system. This gate system, featuring a top and mid-rail configuration, not only enhances safety by preventing falls, but also optimises space utilisation through its nesting design and lightweight operation, ensuring minimal disruption to forklift activities.