Construction Equipment Safety
It is essential to master the basics when it comes to construction equipment safety. Operating heavy duty equipment is no child’s play and requires a fair amount of knowledge, training, and caution to protect against potentially fatal accidents. That’s why it’s imperative to follow safety practices and regulations to ensure a successful project.
RECO Equipment has rustled up a beginner’s guide to construction safety equipment. This is not a substitute for actual training, but is more of a precursor or refresher course to jog your memory (if you’re already a trained professional).
Training
When working with heavy duty equipment, every worker should undergo intensive training to prepare for the task. And part of this preparation should be hands-on training. While theoretical knowledge is one thing, practical knowledge is indeed crucial to avoid accidents. Learning on the job under the supervision of a trained professional can go a long way, as the trainer can nip mistakes in the bud and correct any issues right at the beginning before it forms a habit.
Trainings should cover topics such as how to safely mount and dismount, how to start the equipment, how to identify glitches, understanding the features of the machine, and the lifting and load capacity. A training session should make you feel confident that you are now in a position to use the equipment properly without any problems. Refresher trainings are extremely important and help to optimize performance and keep everyone on the same page.
Inspecting the Equipment
Just as important as training is the working condition of the construction equipment that is going to be used. Compromised machines in need of repair are just accidents waiting to happen. To ensure the safety of all workers it is important to give the equipment a thorough onceover and do a maintenance drill to ensure that the machines are running smoothly. Before operating heavy duty equipment, there are certain items that need your attention. Check the fluid levels (and top off anything that’s low), ensure the tire tread and pressure is in accordance with the owner’s manual (and replace or adjust the tire as needed), check that all the attachments are locked securely in place and check aspects like the lights and horn before starting up your machine.
If there are issues that catch your attention, make sure to visit RECO Equipment for our repair, parts replacement and maintenance services. Our dedicated team of trained experts will ensure that your equipment runs as good as new.
Using the Equipment
Workers should follow instructions carefully when operating construction equipment. There are certain dos and don’ts for operating every piece of equipment. The vehicle should always be fully turned off with the parking brake engaged before anyone enters or leaves it. Never carry anything as you mount or dismount. Use three points of contact when entering the equipment. Wearing the right gear is as important as doing the right thing. Gloves, glasses, hard hats, boots, and so on can protect against serious injury. Construction equipment uses some of the most powerful technology and happen to be the most hazardous machines when handled without caution. Always go through the operating manual, since there are some specific ways of operating unique equipment.
A great way to cover blind spots is to use spotters at construction sites as there are areas that the driver cannot possibly see. They can assist in directing the equipment driver and ensure nothing gets hit.
Looking for construction equipment for sale? Drop by RECO Equipment to check out an impressive inventory of world class construction equipment. Our dedicated team of professionals will help you find what you’re looking for. Safety after all, begins with top quality machines. We have 17 locations in (list all given states) to better serve you wherever you may work.