Parking lot attendants play a crucial role in managing parking facilities, ensuring smooth vehicle flow, and maintaining safety. Regardless of whether they work at airports, hospitals, shopping malls, hotels, or residential buildings, their well-being is essential. Let’s explore safety measures to protect parking attendants:

1. Adequate Lighting
Implementing proper lighting is the first step in enhancing safety. Well-lit parking areas provide better visibility for attendants and help them to be seen by drivers. Using handheld traffic control flashlights/wands also attracts the driver's attention and makes the attendant move visible, even in the daytime.

2. Hi-Viz Clothing
High-visibility clothing helps parking attendants be seen by drivers and differentiates them from other pedestrians.  Safety orange or green with enough sufficient retro-reflective material will allow them to be visible during both day and night.  Check out this article from Oregon OSHA to determine how much reflective material is needed.

3. Clear Signage and Markings
Clear signage and pavement markings guide drivers and pedestrians. Properly marked lanes, pedestrian crossings, and directional signs prevent confusion and reduce the risk of collisions. Use signs, cones, barriers, and other traffic control devices to help drivers understand the attendant’s directives.

4. Proper Footwear and Traction Enhancers
Sturdy outdoor shoes with above-the-ankle support and a good mixed media tread can help reduce foot fatigue and prevent slips and falls. On days when ice or snow may be present in the parking lot, provide traction enhancer/ice cleats that can go over the attendants' shoes.

5. Employee Awareness
Parking attendants should be aware of safety protocols. Encourage them to refrain from using cell phones while on duty and to always remain vigilant. Breaks should be taken in a designated area away or protected from vehicular traffic.

6. Utilize Technology
Leverage technology to enhance safety. In addition to surveillance cameras, consider providing attendants with wearable panic buttons or communication devices.

7. Training
Remember that parking attendants often interact with customers, making exceptional customer service skills crucial.  While the barriers to entry for this profession are low, prioritizing safety and providing thorough training on all job aspects can have a positive impact on attendants’ well-being and overall parking lot management.

For more information, policyholders can go to MEMIC Safety Director or talk to your safety management consultant. 

Posted ByPeter Koch, WCP®