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Heavy Equipment Safety Tips

There are around 2.3 million work-related fatalities each year throughout the world. The leading cause of these is due to machinery accidents.

But, not just in work environments. There are also thousands of fatal accidents every year with heavy equipment when using this outside of work. This is why it is important that you know how to operate safely in almost any situation.

Do you want to learn more about heavy equipment safety? Then read on and learn all about how to stay safe while operating construction equipment.

Inspect the Equipment Before Operating

Inspect the equipment for any signs of leaks, broken or damaged wires, or worn tracks and tires. Make sure all safety lights and labels are clearly visible.

Check the brakes, steering, and throttle to make sure they are working as intended. Ensure the seat and seatbelt are securely attached and in working order. Finally, be sure to check the gauges and levers to make sure they are all in the same, proper position.

Be Wary of Your Surroundings

Always be aware of the terrain and potential hazards. Be prepared to take corrective action if something changes that may put the heavy equipment at risk. Always inspect the area before operating the large equipment.

Make sure no personnel are in the way and that the machine can be maneuvered safely. Furthermore, always ensure to have the right safety gear and adhere to all safety procedures when operating heavy equipment. Additionally, always be familiar with the safety signs and hand signals of the equipment to ensure everyone is aware of the potentially unsafe conditions.

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Be Cautious When Mounting and Dismounting Equipment

Before climbing onto any equipment, be aware of the condition it is in, check for any hazards or malfunctions. It can be dangerous to try and fix any issues while mounting or dismounting the equipment, so take your time. Secure equipment by utilizing three-point contact, which is keeping two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand in contact with the equipment while climbing.

Use the designated steps and handrails when available, and never jump off of equipment. Wear protective gear, such as helmets and safety harnesses, while mounting and dismounting. Finally, supervise the area and be aware of traffic before starting and after completing your job.

Keep Load Limits in Mind

The operator should always be aware of their equipment’s maximum capacity and abide by it. This is for their own safety as well as the safety of others. It is important to know what the maximum weight the machine is rated for and never exceed that number.

Even if it appears that you can lift something heavier, it’s best to stick within the recommended limits. Proper training is also essential so that operators become familiar with their equipment and know its limitations.

They should know exactly how the machine should be operated and what procedures to follow. If ever you need to load equipment that is heavy you can inquire on a truck transport company to do the heavy transport.

Operating Heavy Equipment Safely

Heavy equipment safety is essential for workplace safety. By following these tips, operators can feel more confident and avoid dangerous accidents or injuries on the job.

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Being aware of potential issues, using the proper safety gear, and making sure to follow workplace policies are crucial for operators to stay safe. It’s critical for businesses to ensure employees are equipped with the knowledge and training to remain safe while operating heavy machinery.

For more great resources on construction equipment safety, check out the rest of our blog!

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