Working Around Mobile Equipment

1. Mobile equipment operations can result in struck-by injuries and fatalities. Suspended loads can fall, equipment can roll over, and material can get knocked over. To prevent potential exposures employees should establish pre-planning, communication, and other safe practices before starting work.

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. Communication methods should be established before starting work. What communication methods will be used today? Will you use verbal communications with a radio, hand signals, or both?

4. If using a radio, what channel will be used for operations? If hand signals are to be used, who will be responsible for communicating directly to the operator?

5. Everyone at the workplace has Stop Work Authority. If there is something happening during operations that is unsafe, anyone can signal to stop work. What is the hand signal for emergency stop?

6. Set up work zones or seperate travel paths for vehicles and pedestrians. Also, be aware of the potential swing radius if using equipment that rotates and accommodate using temporary barriers.

7. If there are blind spots, how will potential hazards be communicated? Use spotters whenever an operators view is limited. Spotters and designated grounds people can alert an operator of a potential hazard or event, but also alert other personnel of operations in the area.

8. You should never approach an operator unless they acknowledge your presence and stop operations. Give a wave and wait for a nod of acknowledgement from your operator before continuing on.

9. If pedestrians need to cross the path of heavy equipment, get the attention of an operator, make eye contact and get approval before crossing the path.

10. Do not walk underneath suspended or overhead loads.

11. High vis clothing and PPE should be worn so operators can see personnel in the area. Before operations check that garments are clean and well maintained.

12. What are some other potential hazards when working around mobile equipment?

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