Which item is identified as a common struck-by incident error in EMS operations?

• A. Failure to establish a temp traffic control zone
• B. improper emergency vehicle position
• C. ineffective use of scene lights
• D. improper or lack of PPE

Answer: (A)

Struck-by injuries at EMS scenes happen when responders are exposed to moving traffic or passing vehicles. The most effective control is establishing a temporary traffic control zone that creates a buffer between the work area and the travel lanes, using cones, signs, and personnel to direct or block traffic as needed. This setup reduces the chance that drivers will encroach on the scene and gives responders a safer space to work and move equipment.

Other factors matter, but they don’t address the primary hazard as directly. Not placing the EMS vehicle to optimize safety can contribute to risk, and poor scene lighting or lacking PPE affects visibility or personal protection, but they don’t prevent vehicles from striking responders the way a controlled traffic zone does.