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On practically every construction job, heavy equipment is required. Regrettably, when not utilized appropriately, they may be exceedingly harmful. Follow these safety precautions while working with heavy machinery on a construction site to promote productivity and a safe work environment:
1. Training for Equipment Operators
Workers should be taught the right techniques for operating all pieces of equipment safely. Training should include both classroom and hands-on learning. Safety, danger detection, equipment safety features, and safe maneuvering of heavy equipment should all be addressed.
Workers should be instructed on correct mounting and dismounting techniques and the right start-up method for each piece of equipment.
They should have a firm grasp of the equipment’s lifting capacities and load capacities on which they will be operating. Retraining and refresher courses should be performed as necessary, particularly if a worker is spotted using equipment in a dangerous way or for a purpose other than its design. Only properly trained personnel should be permitted to operate machinery for any purpose. According to safels.com, it is important to understand the dangers and protect yourself and your coworkers.
2. Conduct Pre-Use Inspections of Equipment
Before each usage, visually examine heavy equipment to verify it is in excellent functioning condition. Tires and tracks should be inspected for signs of wear and deterioration. At a minimum, you should check fluid levels such as engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and oil levels each day before starting the equipment for the first time. Hydraulic hoses, buckets, booms, and other components should all be inspected for cracks and corrosion. Assemble and secure all attachments.
When starting the equipment, check to ensure that the lights, gauges, horns, and backup alarms function correctly. Assure that all arms, shovels, buckets, and other implements are completely extended in all directions. If the cab rotates, ensure that it rotates freely in all directions. Never utilize equipment that is malfunctioning or looks to be damaged. Not only might you cause more damage to the equipment, but it could also pose a serious safety hazard if not addressed before use.
3. Maintain Communication Channels
Heavy equipment operators must be absolutely certain that the planned movement is safe, whether backing up or altering position. Spotters are the most effective method of preventing accidents, and each spotter should be equipped with a two-way radio for continuous communication with the operator. If your team does not have a two-way radio, they will need to communicate through hand signals or signs.
All spotters should wear proper PPE, such as bright safety vests, to ensure that the team is visible to operators. Along with wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety vests and safety glasses, spotters should be responsible for rerouting pedestrians and oncoming vehicles to guarantee their safety while heavy machinery is in operation.
4. Be Conscious of Your Environment
When operating heavy equipment, it is critical to be aware of your working area and any potential obstructions. Overhead electrical lines should be de-energized, or if that is not practicable, barriers should be established to prevent contact. When excavating, ensure that all subsurface services, such as sewage, water, gas, and electrical, are identified and well-marked to prevent harming them and causing delays and additional work.
Workers should be kept away from places where heavy machinery is in operation whenever feasible. Operators should be conscious of their swing radius, particularly while operating in congested areas, to prevent colliding with other employees, onlookers, or adjacent cars or equipment.
5. Establish Buffer Zones
While all construction sites include inherent risks, these problematic conditions become more complicated when worksites are located near busy highways or areas with a high volume of pedestrian activity. In these instances, you should always have a crew tasked with keeping cars and people clear of heavy equipment.
In most circumstances, a physical barrier between traffic and heavy equipment will need to be established. This is often done via warning signs such as road cones and physical barriers along highways. You will need to consult the DOT guidelines to determine how to set up your buffer and warning zone to ensure the safety of the job.
Construction sites may be dangerous environments, and accidents can occur at any time. If you remain safe, vigilant, and knowledgeable about your equipment, your employment will remain risk-free and gratifying.
