Excavator Safe Practices

1. Excavators are extremely dangerous due to their size, weight, and operating radius. Struck-by, overhead, and caught in exposures are just a few hazards to be aware of when working with this equipment.

2. The most important safety of any mobile equipment is proper training. Operators must go through safety and operations training before they can operate. Retraining is also important as bad habits can be learned over time.

3. Conduct a visual and physical equipment inspection daily or after each shift when used on multiple shifts.

4. Visually inspect basic components such as safety devices, horns, lights, guards, shields, fire extinguishers, glass, wipers, engine and hydraulic fluid, boom, stick, and attachments. Ensure all controls are correctly labeled and labels are legible.

5. During the physical inspection, check all controls for proper operation. Never operate an excavator that malfunctions or shows signs of damage during inspection.

6. Ensure the operator's cab is free of dirt, grease, and objects that could interfere with the safe operation of the excavator.

7. If deficiencies are found during the inspection that would prevent safe operation, tag the equipment out of service until repairs can be made.

8. In addition to inspecting the equipment, inspect surrounding areas and working conditions to develop a plan of action before operations begin. Inspect soil conditions to ensure the excavator will be stabilized.

9. Be aware of other people on the job site and use barricades, safety cones, caution tape, and other work zone barriers to notify others of potential exposures.

10. When setting up a work zone area, consider the swing radius in your barricade to prevent pedestrians and co-workers from struck-by injuries.

11. Use three points of contact when climbing into the cab of the machine and always enter and exit while facing the machine. Never jump off the machine when exiting.

12. Know and understand the capacity of the excavator. Do not overload the bucket with too much material in order to prevent tip over hazards.

13. Operators must wear a seatbelt at all times when operating an excavator.

14. Turn the excavator slowly and be cautious of your swing radius.

15. Avoid undercutting. Be aware of where you are digging and know the position of the excavator in regard to the working edge.

16. Excavators are designed for one operator only. Never carry passengers in the cab and never lift personnel in the bucket or other attachments. This is strictly prohibited.

17. In high traffic areas, use a spotter to help direct you to avoid blind spots. Maintain constant communication via radios or hand signals. Always identify communication methods prior to the start of operations.

18. No one is authorized to stand under the boom of the excavator or a raised load.

19. Always read the owner's manual and follow manufacturer guidelines for operation.

20. In what other ways can we protect ourselves from potential exposures and injuries?

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