Understanding potential accidents and implementing safety measures is crucial for staying safe while operating heavy equipment. Prioritizing safety protocols also protects you and ensures your coworkers' well-being on the job site.
(Photo : Pexels/David McElwee )
Prioritize Training and Certification
By participating in specialized training, equipment operators acquire knowledge regarding the numerous safety protocols, danger identification methods, and risk reduction approaches that contribute to the prevention of hazardous accidents.
They also boost production and efficiency while enabling businesses to remain in compliance with the authorities.
Know Equipment Safety Features
As the technology behind heavy equipment continues to advance, more technologies that make machines safer to use are becoming accessible.
For example, systems can detect loads, stabilize the vehicle with rollover protection, manage ground speed, suppress fires, and install rear-view cameras. When new safety features are introduced, every operator must know how to operate them correctly.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
If you are operating heavy machinery, you need to be aware of the environment in which you are working and any potential barriers you may encounter. It is recommended that overhead electrical lines be de-energized, or if this is not possible, barriers should be constructed to prevent people from coming into contact with them.
Ensure all underground facilities, including sewer, water, gas, and electrical, are appropriately verified and well-marked before digging. This will reportedly prevent any damage to the utilities, resulting in delays and more labor.
Inspect Equipment Before Use
Before each use, it is essential to visually inspect heavy equipment to ensure that it is in good working order. Verify that the tires and treads are not damaged or worn. In addition, before doing any daily equipment operations, conducting a minimum fluid level inspection, including checks on hydraulic fluid, engine oil, and oil, is essential.
Inspect the hydraulic hoses, buckets, booms, and other components for any fractures or damage that may have occurred. Ensure that all of the attachments are securely fastened into place.
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Wear Seat Belts
Seat belts save people; therefore, they are mandatory in all motor vehicles, including heavy machinery and automobiles. A seat belt prevents the driver from being ejected from the car if it rolls over. Nevertheless, as part of the worker safety gear laws, employers must provide adequate seat belts in heavy machinery.
Maintain Constant Communication
Operators of heavy equipment must constantly communicate with one another, the ground crew, and their respective supervisors. Currently, the most effective method for accomplishing this is through two-way radios.
Know and Obey Load Limits
Be aware of the load restrictions for the equipment setup, both in size and weight. Use the appropriate attachments to ensure that the load is fastened correctly. Regularly inspect the rigging visually for any signs of fraying or breaking. Accordingly, ensure personnel are safely out of the way before shifting a load.
Load and Unload Safely
Place any heavy machinery on a level surface before loading or unloading it. This decreases the likelihood that the car may roll or slide. Provide someone responsible for acting as a spotter to ensure that individuals are not standing near your loading or unloading area.
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