What kinds of safety precaution mersures do you have when you are operating heavy equimpent?
because I am wondering so I will know what to expect. #heavyequimpent #construction #warehouse #blue-collar #safety
3 answers
robert white
robert’s Answer
You want to have your confidence in yourself with the heavy equipment you are operating built up with familiarity of the equipment and job site. So first thing we do is walk a complete 360 ° around the equipment checking for anything that is out of place , worn, making sure everything is functional. Making sure to check all fluid levels, batteries, etc. After it all checks out we climb on the equipment making sure to always use a 3 points of contact as we climb on. (Meaning always having at least 3 of your 4 feet and hands touching the equipment, keeping balance. Before operating any equipment you need to have thorough understanding of the job site you are operating on. Taking all precautions needed to manouver safely. Their are different safety hazards with all jobs and professionalism comes with experience. Remember safety is always first and everyone working here is a safety officer.
Akhil’s Answer
The equipment, take the inspection log seriously, don't pencil whip it. Some things can be fixed in due course, some things must be fixed now before your begin. Those machines take a beating and they're in the harshest environments imaginable. They need daily TLC to get you through the day without a hitch.
If you're new to that piece, take some time to practice and get good. Work in clear areas and slow methodical purpose until you're familiar with it. Controls should become second nature because when chaos erupts, moving yourself out of the way without going the wrong direction should be an automatic movement.. not trying to figure out which button to push. Used to be easier with long sticks but the seat joysticks with multiple buttons, it can be tricky. The really good guys don't brag about how good they are but you can spot them easily by how fluid their movements are. Get to know the good guys and learn from them. Its all about seat time and elbow room to work them safely provided you're given a safe piece to equipment to begin with.
Josh’s Answer
As the operator of heavy equipment you have a big responsibility to the safety of all of the others around you. A large piece of equipment operated in an unsafe manner can cause a lot of damage to people and property. As the operator you should have specific training for the piece of equipment you are operating and the best way to get really good on a piece of equipment is to have a mentor to help guide you. An experienced operator can help you understand the details of a piece of equipment and its capabilities.
To protect you as the operator it is important to wear safety devices and not override them. Seatbelts and lap-bars are very common safety devices in the operators cab. You should also adjust seats and mirrors to your needs so you can see and operate the machine comfortably.
There are many good trade organizations out there that offer operator training focusing on safety.