Traffic routes and intersections: planning visibility in the warehouse
A sufficiently wide route alone does not make internal traffic easy to oversee. At intersections, exits, doors and rack ends, sight lines can be obstructed and movements from several directions can converge. The complete route and all its transitions must therefore be considered.
Key points at a glance
- Make vehicle routes, pedestrian paths and crossing points clearly recognisable and separate them wherever possible.
- Identify obstructions at intersections, doors, rack ends and temporarily stored goods.
- Adapt rules, markings and technical aids to the actual processes and vehicles.
Assess visibility and traffic management as one system
For every route, document the direction of travel, opposing traffic, bends, narrow points and areas where vehicles enter or leave. Markings only help when they remain visible and reflect the actual routes. Stored pallets, open doors or changing storage zones must not alter important sight lines unnoticed.
Where direct visibility is insufficient, operating rules, suitable mirrors, warning technology or physical separation can help. The appropriate solution depends on speed, vehicle type, pedestrian traffic, lighting and the available space. The specific design must therefore follow the workplace risk assessment and applicable requirements.
Record the complete route before selecting a vehicle
Document intersections, narrow points, doors, visual obstructions and pedestrian areas. These operating data help select a forklift whose dimensions and driving characteristics suit the planned environment.
Frequently asked questions about routes and visibility
Are floor markings sufficient at intersections?
Not always. Markings must remain visible and be supplemented by suitable traffic rules, clear sight lines and, where required, further organisational, technical or structural measures.
What can change visibility at an intersection?
Racking, columns, doors, stored pallets, changing storage areas and vehicles can obstruct sight lines. The real operating condition must therefore be checked as well as the plan.
When are mirrors or warning systems useful?
If direct visibility cannot be provided reliably, suitable aids can form part of the protection concept. Their selection and position must suit the specific risk assessment and environment.
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