Category Archives: Safety

Keep your crew safe this summer

Jobsite safety should be the number one priority for you and your crew. In this month’s issue of Construction Business Owner, the article 7 Critical Safety Considerations for Compact Equipment outline what every person operating equipment this summer needs to know before they get behind the controls.

Here’s a brief overview:

1: Know the basis of operating procedures: Inexperienced operators need guidance — give the training they need.

2: Understand jobsite safety guidelines: Does everyone have a hardhat, the right boots, vest, etc.? Also, anyone operating your equipment should also spend a little time reading the operating manual.

3: Take the time to inspect the jobs: Before work begins, walk the job looking for obstacles, buried and overhead utilities.

4:Look for potential issues with the machine: Many problems with a machine can be avoided by simply performing a visual inspection every day.

5: Operate the machine safely: Wear your seatbelt, pay attention to the gauges and make sure the parking brake is set when exiting the machine. You get the idea.

6: Use the right attachment for the job: Accidents happen when a machine or attachment is pushed to the limit and not used how the manufacturer intended it to be.

7: Maintain the machine: Check your fluids, grease and make sure your undercarriage is clean. Also, be certain you’re got good tread on your tires or tracks.

If you want to learn more, head over to Construction Business Owner’s website.

Compact Equipment Tire Safety

Jobsite safety is a big deal for every contractor, but have you ever taken a minute to think about how your compact equipment tires impact safety? Tires impact the performance of your equipment on the job there is no doubt about it. Not using the proper tire ply, use the wrong tread pattern for the environment and under/over inflating your tires can all impact how a machine handles and performs, which can lead to accidents.

Johni Francis, a global product manager for Titan International recently wrote about tire safety his Compact Equipment story “Construction Equipment Tire Safety Do and Don’ts.” (http://compactequip.com/oem-systems/construction-equipment-tire-safety-dos-and-donts/). Check it out and encourage your crew to read it, too.

Keep Your Crews Working Safely

Operator safety should be a top concern for you and your crew. For veterans of the industry, the safety precautions for compact equipment happens without giving them a second thought. However, for any new men or women jumping into the cab of a skid steer loader, compact track loader or excavator for the first time, you better make sure they know a few universal safety tips for running compact equipment.

A recent article on ForConstructionPros.com, list out several safety guidelines (http://www.forconstructionpros.com/article/12239000/promote-safety-on-the-job-with-these-universal-guidelines-for-compact-equipment-operation) for compact equipment operators:

Consult the operation and maintenance manual before operating any type of compact equipment.
Follow instructions on machine safety signs to avoid situations that can cause serious injuries or even death.
Wear tight-fitting clothing that cannot get caught on working components or controls inside and outside of the machine.
Always face the machine when getting in, and grab handles and use steps that are provided for a three-point contact.
Fasten the seatbelt.
Pay close attention to all warning lights and gauges.
Never attempt to start the engine or operate the controls from outside the machine.
Look to the rear first before backing up and check each side before swinging or turning the machine.
Run at a low speed until the operator is comfortable with using the machine.
Never allow riders on the machine.
Keep all body parts inside the machine while it is running.
Be aware of overhead or underground power lines or obstacles.
Make sure proper ventilation is provided if working in an enclosed area or building.
Move slowly uphill or downhill, with the heaviest part of the machine uphill. (When loaders or handlers are empty, the heaviest part might be the rear of the machine.)
Avoid sudden stops or turns; steep slopes or drop-offs; rocks; culverts and stumps.
Stop the machine on level ground when finished on a jobsite. Always lower the booms, lift arms, buckets and attachments before exiting the machine.
Engage the parking brake and stop the engine before leaving the unit with the three-point exit strategy.

While many these tips may feel like common sense, don’t leave it to chance. Make sure your crew is working safely on every job.

One thing the article doesn’t mention is the importance of properly maintained tracks and tires to overall operating safety. Worn out tracks or tires will not provide the traction your machines need, which can lead to trouble — especially when operating on grade. If you’re unsure about the condition of your equipment’s tracks and/or tires, we can help. Give us a call or drop us an email (http://www.tracksandtires.com/contact-us/).