When you work with heavy machinery, it is essential to keep yourself and those around you safe. Accidents happen when individuals don’t understand or don’t follow the rules and regulations, and those accidents can be deadly. This post will look at six basic safety rules for heavy machinery drivers to help keep your worksite safe.
Common Heavy Machinery Hazards
There are many hazards when working with heavy machinery; the most common include:
- Electrocution from contact with overhead wires
- Vehicle overturning
- Falling materials striking the driver or other workers.
- Vehicle trapping workers between a wall or other objects
- Vehicle running over other workers.
Safety Rules
Here are six essential safety rules for heavy machinery drivers to keep in mind to help keep your job site safe.
- Training
Every individual who operates heavy machinery must have the proper training and certification for their specific vehicle. You should only operate heavy machinery if you have been appropriately certified by an organization with Toronto safety services in mind. It is essential to understand each vehicle’s operation and become aware of the potential hazards and safety guidelines.
.
- Communication
Worksites can be busy, noisy environments, with many workers focused on many different tasks. Heavy machinery especially is very loud, and they often have multiple blind spots. When driving heavy machinery, it is essential to communicate clearly with your fellow workers.
Take advantage of two-way radios or use a signaler to help you manoeuvre through a busy job site. Communication alerts everyone to heavy machinery movements, and that helps keep everyone safe.
- Be Aware of Your Limits
Working with heavy machinery needs your complete focus and attention. If you feel tired or unwell, it is best to stay away from heavy ma chinery until you feel better. You should also know when it is time for a break. A quick break and stretch can help you stay alert.
Photo Credit: Roger Brown | Pexels
- Know Your Vehicle
Before working with heavy machinery, you should do a thorough inspection of your vehicle and surroundings. Look for any damage or potential wear. It is essential for everyone’s safety that the machines are working correctly and safely. If you see a problem, report it and get it fixed right away.
You should also be aware of potential issues with the particular vehicle you are operating. Some are more at risk for turnovers or flipping if weight is not distributed correctly. Other vehicles are at risk for under-ride. Forklift rear guard in Toronto provides safety equipment to help prevent these kinds of accidents.
- Use the Right Safety Equipment
Every worker should wear the proper safety equipment for the job site they are on. Often this includes hard hats, safety boots, reflective vests and ear and eye protection. Be sure you are aware of the safety equipment required for the job before you begin, and be sure to wear it. And wear your seatbelt. It could also help if you are using VR in architecture too.
- Use The Right Equipment for The Job
Be sure that the vehicle and equipment you have to use is the right equipment for the job. Using heavy machinery for a task that it was not designed for can be very dangerous and put drivers and other workers at risk. Relocation companies can help bring the right equipment to your worksite, so you always have the vehicle you need.
Follow these six safety rules to help make your worksite a safer place for everyone to work.
