The Lab has experienced a concerning trend of preventable accidents with fleet vehicles, particularly during parking maneuvers. These incidents typically involve drivers backing into objects like bollards, rocks, or walls that could have been avoided with proper visual inspection.

To address these concerns, Kenya Broadnax, Fleet Services Manager, and the Fleet Review Committee are launching the safety initiative GOAL: Get Out And Look. GOAL encourages a simple but effective practice: before getting into their parked vehicle, drivers should physically walk around their vehicle and visually inspect their surroundings for potential hazards. In addition, drivers should use spotters when there is more than one person in the vehicle, as it is everyone’s responsibility to prevent accidents and incidents.

“These accidents not only damage Lab resources, but also drain department budgets and delay critical operations,” says Kenya. “In this fiscal year, we’ve seen over $140,000 in vehicle damage — costs that departments must cover, often at the expense of important projects. Taking a moment to follow GOAL: Get Out And Look, can prevent these incidents, saving money and keeping our teams running smoothly.”

Drivers should use GOAL:

• Before backing up
• When navigating tight spaces
• When unsure about clearance
• Any time you’re moving a parked vehicle

“Taking just ten seconds to get out and look can prevent accidents and protect both people and property,” explains Heather Pinto, Department Head for Site Services. “It’s a small time investment that yields significant returns for safety and resource stewardship.”

As part of the initiative, all Lab fleet vehicles will have vinyl decals reminding drivers to Get Out And Look. The Fleet Review Committee is also updating training materials and the Fleet Safety webpage with information on GOAL.

For more information about GOAL and other fleet safety guidelines, visit the Fleet Vehicle Safety webpage. For questions and concerns, contact fleet@lbl.gov.