If you have ever seen a construction site, you would be aware of all the hustle and bustle surrounding construction operations. Not only is the work hectic on such sites but it also represents danger. As such, the use of heavy equipment does carry many risks. The slightest mistake or even a minor negligence could result in major repercussions, such as injury or death. Even a minor accident has the potential to derail a large construction project.
The threats of working on a construction site are manifold due to many reasons. This is because there simply is no room for errors when the use of heavy equipment is involved. The risks are many and few of them would be classified as those emancipating from falling materials, electrocution, rollover, or a tip-over. There is a strong need to operate heavy equipment securely. Even the slightest mistake could increase the risk of injury and damage and delay the project which would then reflect into enormous financial loss.
The use of used construction equipment must be made safe by handing over the responsibility to a skilled and experienced operator. An inexperienced operator who has not received adequate training may lead the equipment towards an accident, thereby causing many issues like injuries, deaths, or derailing the project.
However, there are ways in which you can minimize the risks. This blog will discuss some of the tips you can practice to reduce the room for errors.
Inspect all heavy equipment before use
Whenever operating heavy equipment, the operator needs to check it before putting it into operation. It is important to verify the health of the equipment and ensure that it is in good working condition. The equipment needs to be checked and inspected closely as this will allow the operator to look for possible signs of wear and tear. Also, checking for oil or hydraulic leaks is important. The equipment also needs to be checked once work is over.
The issue with heavy equipment is that if it is made to operate over extended hours, the risk of overheating and catching fire increases. It is important that the operator and the supervisor understand when the equipment would need to be shut down to avoid such issues. Also, it is important to look out for replacement if it is needed. Equipment generally breaks down as it is being used. This may give rise to the need to acquire and install new replacement parts.
Understand that even heavy equipment has certain limitations
Understanding the limitations of heavy equipment is crucial in avoiding any incident. If it involves the use of earth movers’ equipment or other heavy lifting equipment, such as earth moving equipment, then it is essential to make sure that the weight being moved from one place to the other does not cross the limit the equipment can manage. It is best to measure the weight of the materials being moved with the weight the equipment can manage. Try not to overload the equipment. if the load is too high, you may have the materials removed in one or more trips.
Also, make sure you have the right equipment for the job you are performing. There are many different types of construction equipment with each having its specific uses. If the requirements of your projects are changing, always make sure you have the equipment with the same qualities that you need for the specific project. Bringing in the right equipment for the job ensures safety at the workplace.
Always utilize a spotter
Utilizing equipment spotters is important when involved in construction projects. Such spotters have the potential to identify any possible hazards that may be present to the operator who on account of being inside the machine may not be able to view the surroundings with a better angle. Since the operator’s vision may be limited, they may fail to notice any risks that may present in the surroundings.
Contractors may feel overwhelmed at the cost of the spotter but still hiring one is important. This becomes true especially if an accident was to happen that would incur significant financial costs. Since spotters can prevent accidents from happening, such an investment is worth the money. Preventing accidents that could result in injuries is important as they may otherwise delay the project. Even worse, it may damage the company’s reputation, making it difficult to obtain contracts and hence business in the future.
Address any threats on account of electrocution
At times, the construction work of a project may involve working around high-voltage areas. In such places, the threat of electrocution is always present. If you are using a backhoe for example that uses an attachment that ends up being in an area adjacent to a power source, it may very well result in injury or even death of the operator. It may also cause harm to those present in the vicinity.
Hence, all threats of electrocution must be addressed. It must be ensured that the equipment, such as a wheel excavator does not get too close to any power lines.
Last word
The project managers have immense responsibility on their shoulders to ensure all risks at the worksite are minimized. Leading the team and showing others the right way is the responsibility of those at the helm of construction operations. However, safety is still everyone’s responsibility. Cultivating a mindset at work where all crew members and employees take safety as a primary source of concern is important. This will promote the adoption of steps by everyone that will ensure robust security measures, leading to a decline in the risk of accidents and injuries.
It is important that you invest the money in the right direction. If you find the cost of new equipment too high then you may opt for used construction equipment. Such equipment can be purchased at a small cost. If you find the right dealer, you may as very well get fully functional equipment that functions just like new equipment. Hence, it is important that you carefully research a credible heavy equipment trader before purchasing heavy equipment.
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