Handling on-site machinery and vehicles is a critical task. Operators must be skilled enough to manage heavy equipment properly. According to the statistics, at least 20,000 workers get injured on construction sites, due to negligence of machine and vehicle handling on-site.
Although hiring experienced, skillful operators is a huge factor that plays an eminent role in maintaining safety. However, there is a lot that is often avoided, leading to potential damages and accidents. From replacing worn-out truck seats that ensure comfort and safety whilst driving to wearing the seat belt at all times; little cautious habits are crucial to maintaining on-site safety.
To help you understand the small steps that can prevent bigger issues, we have culled up some basic safety tips for equipment and machinery management. Let’s dig in.
1. Wear your Seat Belt:
Every heavy equipment and vehicle that is operated on-site has safety seat belts. Whether you are operating cranes, trucks, or any other machinery. If God Forbid, any mishap occurs, your seat belt keeps you in one place. In case, you don’t have one tucked up to your waist tightly, you will be thrown away in any direction which can cause fatal injuries. Seat belts are life saviors. And you can avoid serious damage by simply wearing it.
2. Unload and Load Properly:
Employees are usually in a hurry when loading and unloading goods on the vehicle. However, this haste often results in accidents. The vehicle either rolls off or slides. It is important that workers stand away from the vehicle whilst loading and unloading is taking place. Furthermore, you need to certify that the equipment is sitting perfectly on the ground level.
3. Pre-Check Machinery before Starting:
A visual check of all the machinery or equipment that has to work on-site, before starting the project can be extremely helpful in preventing damages. Also check the gas lines, hydro wires, and cables carefully. Many issues are caused due to negligence or avoidance of proper wire and pipe settlements before the on-site project begins. Thus, a pre-check is extremely important as it goes a long way in keeping everything secure.
4. Adhere to the Load Limits:
As an on-site worker and operator, you must be well-acknowledged about the load capacity and limits of any equipment that you are using. Even more importantly, you must certify that you are adhering to the limitations too. Do not overload a pallet jack or forklift more than it can bear. This leads to accidents that can result in fatal injuries. Moreover, before you move the loaded goods, make sure that there is no one in the area.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
As an operator, for the sake of your own safety and the one’s around you, you must adhere to the on-site safety regulations. Keep all the security parameters in your mind and follow them. Also, make sure that you do not risk yourself for the slightest bit. If you sense an issue with your vehicle or equipment, communicate it to the concerned department right away. Small steps are all you need to maintain a safe working environment for all.
