Avoid Unusual Heavy Equipment Safety Hazards – The Basics To Know

3 min read

2 weeks ago johnlevis

In general construction sites occupy heavy equipment for performing development, excavation, and other construction processes. Installed heavy equipment is responsible for loading and unloading bulky materials to safely speed up the ongoing process.

However, one common practice that requires strict obedience is the creation of safe construction surroundings. Having said that, according to OSHA around 1 out of 5 workers in construction areas are prone to fatalities.

With the right knowledge of equipment hazards and know-how of preventive measures, one can save himself or herself from unpleasant heavy equipment safety hazards.

Understanding The Three Common Heavy Equipment Hazards

If you are familiar with the construction industry’s environment, you must calculate the number of health risks the workers are vulnerable to. Following is the trio of most common safety hazards workers may face on-site. Educate yourself on what are these and how to encounter them.

Access Hazard

Failure to maintain safety around heavy equipment can trap, injure, or expose workers to additional hazards. Planning the use of equipment and materials, as well as identifying the workers in the work zone, is essential to preventing access hazards.

Mechanical Hazard

The operation of heavy machinery introduces mechanical hazards, which can jeopardize safety. Failure to take precautions and adhere to proper safety measures can result in workers getting cut, punctured, crushed, or tangled in the machine.

Non-Mechanical Hazard

The machine poses non-mechanical risks even when it is not in operation. These risks include heated surfaces, electric shocks, and gas or fluid buildup. Examples include heavy metals, heat, light, dust, and radiation. Burns, respiratory problems, and other dangerous diseases may result from exposure to these risks.

5 Safety Instructions To Avoid Unpleasant Incidents

Installing heavy equipment for enhancing construction projects is the dream of modern-age development industries. We know that the ad for a used wheeled excavator for sale is exciting for you.

But before you invest a hefty amount in installing it, make sure you are aware of the safety instructions to prevent heavy equipment mishappenings.

Operator Training Session

Operators must receive the necessary training on the machinery before they are allowed to operate it. A machine’s capacity, safe startup procedures, and compliant operations are all part of proper training.

Pre-use Equipment Inspection

Inspect the machine thoroughly before each use, looking for any signs of damage or irregularities.

Additionally, check the tire pressure and fluid levels to ensure optimal functioning.

Obey Load Limits

When you install used heavy equipment like a wheeled excavator, you will get a user manual. Such machine guides explain the load limits that the following machine can bear.

Make sure you obey the load limits as misuse may lead to unsafe incidents.

Take Note Of The Seatbelt

If God forbade the equipment rolls over, you have a seatbelt attached to it which can save you from getting thrown out of it.

Seatbelts serve as the most secure gear for heavy equipment. So make a habit of wearing your seatbelt as soon as you step into the equipment.

A Thorough Site Inspection

Before beginning any job, be aware of any potential hazards in the area where you work. This covers subsurface utilities, transmission lines, and blind zones.

Always keep a check that no worker is nearby when you’re running heavy equipment. Or clear the zone if you see any worker within the development boundary.