Awareness Around Heavy Equipment Operations
The Problem
Heavy equipment is essential on many construction sites, but it also poses significant hazards if not operated or approached safely. Every year, workers are injured or killed due to incidents involving heavy machinery. These accidents often result from blind spots, poor communication, or workers entering restricted zones. Today, we’ll cover how to stay safe around heavy equipment by recognizing the hazards and following safe work practices.
Identify the Hazards
- Blind Spots: Operators may not see workers behind or beside the machine.
- Struck-by Incidents: Workers can be hit by moving equipment, swinging booms, or falling loads.
- Pinch Points: Being caught between moving parts or between machinery and fixed structures.
- Unstable Loads: Loads that are not properly secured may fall or shift unexpectedly.
- Operator Error: Fatigue, distractions, or insufficient training can lead to incidents.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Stay Clear of Operating Zones
- Always keep a safe distance from working machinery.
- Do not approach operating equipment unless you've made clear eye contact with the operator.
Know the Blind Spots
- Familiarize yourself with the blind spots on each type of equipment.
- Avoid standing or walking in areas where visibility is restricted.
Use Spotters and Communication
- Use trained spotters when visibility is limited or operations are complex.
- Agree on clear hand signals or use two-way radios for effective communication.
Mind the Swing Radius
- Stay outside the swing area of excavators, cranes, or similar equipment to avoid being struck.
Pre-Use Equipment Inspections
- Operators must carry out daily pre-start checks.
- Confirm that warning devices (such as reverse alarms) and mirrors or cameras are functional.
Wear High-Visibility PPE
- All workers in areas with operating equipment must wear high-visibility clothing as per CSA standards.
Follow the Site Traffic Management Plan
- Stick to designated walkways and pedestrian zones.
- Obey all site-specific traffic signage and controls.
Stay Focused
- Avoid using mobile phones, earbuds, or anything that diverts your attention near heavy equipment.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a recent job, a worker was seriously injured after walking behind a reversing loader. The operator, unaware of the worker’s presence, backed into them. The reverse alarm was not functioning, and the worker hadn’t made eye contact. This incident could have been prevented through proper communication and a functioning safety check.
Employee Responsibilities
- Maintain situational awareness at all times around heavy equipment.
- Stay in designated pedestrian zones and avoid restricted areas.
- Wear your high-visibility PPE and follow site safety instructions.
- Communicate with operators or spotters before entering any equipment work zone.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide and maintain machinery with working safety systems like alarms, cameras, and mirrors.
- Train workers and operators on communication protocols and hazard zones.
- Develop and implement traffic management plans in line with CCOHS Good Practice Guidelines.
- Ensure all spotters and operators are trained and competent.
Discussion & Questions
- What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced while working near heavy equipment?
- Has anyone experienced a near-miss? What could have been done differently?
Encourage workers to share their experiences and suggestions.
Commitment/Action Plan
Starting today, let’s commit to staying alert and communicating clearly around heavy machinery. Always follow traffic control measures, wear high-vis gear, and check in with the operator or spotter before entering equipment work zones.
Wrap-Up
Heavy equipment is critical to the job, but it brings serious risks if not respected. By staying alert and following safety protocols, we can keep ourselves and our workmates safe. Thanks for your commitment to safety.
Standards Overview
Under the Canada Labour Code and applicable provincial health and safety legislation, all employers (PCBUs) must ensure the health and safety of workers while operating or working around machinery.
CCOHS guidelines for mobile elevating work platforms and traffic management plans outline key practices for controlling risks associated with heavy equipment.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.
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