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Construction Equipment Dangers
by Susan McElrath
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How to avoid injury from construction equipment
Equipment used on construction jobs often creates
dangerous conditions. This week's Safety Topic examines
a few situations which should be watched for at all times.
Any moving equipment such as skip loaders, back hoes,
trenchers, cranes, hi-lifts, trucks, you name it, should be
respected and avoided. Don't just assume that the operator sees
you. You could wind up injured or worse. And don't depend on
hearing a horn or an alarm to warn you that moving equipment is
near. You may not be able to hear the equipment's alarm over
other construction noise.
When you see that equipment is traveling backwards keep out of
the way and stand clear until the operator has completed his
maneuver. Never cut across the path behind any unit while it is
backing. You could easily trip and full under the equipment. For
the same reason you should never ride on the running boards,
steps or drawbar or any equipment, even for a short distance.
During backing, the operator should have the project foreman
clear the area behind the unit and provide direction. No operator
should back a piece of equipment into and area without someone
clearing the area and giving signals.
Watch out for swinging counterweights on equipment such as
cranes. There is often a pinch-point between the counterweights
and some obstruction when the unit swings. Make sure there is
enough room for workers to pass and if there is not - shut off
the area to any access.
Never ride on or near material that is being transported by
equipment. The load could shift and you can be thrown to the
ground. Also, clearance may not allow for your position and you
can be crushed between overhead or side obstructions.
If you must ride on equipment, make sure that all parts of
your body are inside the unit, including your arms and legs. In
addition, it at all possible, get off any portable scaffold or
work platform while the unit is being moved. The time it takes to
get off will be much less than the time lost if you fall or the
unit tips over.
Never walk alongside moving equipment. Keep in the clear in
case it slides or turns, or the load shifts.
When you are working near equipment operating in the vicinity
of power lines, don't touch or come in contact with the frame of
the unit or the load cables. There is always the chance that the
boom of the unit may hit the power lines. Warn the operator and
the foreman any time you see this possibility and follow their
instructions.
Don't walk under loads on cranes and hoists. Always take the
path that avoids danger.
Never clean, adjust, lubricate, repair or work on a machine
that is in operation. Stop the machine before working on it and
replace the guards as soon as it is done and before operation is
resumed.
The safest thing to do around construction
equipment is keep away while the equipment is in operation. If
you must be near the equipment, make sure the operator knows you
are working nearby and stay alert. Keeping your mind on where you
are in relation to the equipment will not only prevent injuries
but could save your life.
Caution!! please read the
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