Working around Heavy Equipments

Heavy equipment is both powerful and dangerous, not only for the operator, but also for those working around it. It is important for you to know the safety precautions while working with and around the heavy equipments like crane, forklift, trailer etc. Use of warning tape barricades, signboards and other warning devices will stop the unauthorized entry in such areas and will reduce the chances of accidents.

There are many activities on site that requires crane, forklift, trailer etc. operation to either lift or shift the materials. This is a common observation that in most cases people have failed to install a proper barricade and warning signboards in the area during these operations which could lead to an accident. Being struck is the biggest danger in worksites. Workers on foot must be alert at all times. To help avoid accidents, take these precautions: However personnel involved in crane, forklift, trailer etc. operations must ensure the following:-

Ensure that the swing radius of each crane has been barricaded to prevent employees from entering the swing radius with required distance and warning sign. The barricades should not occupy large areas. Doing so many people enter and go near the crane.

Store all tools that are needed by workers, other than the crane operator, outside of the crane's swing radius.

No one is allowed to stand, pass or work below the suspended load. Doing so a person may get crushed.

Check surroundings often. Listen for warnings.

Know the traffic control plan and stay clear of vehicles.

Work in only those areas necessary to carry out the job at hand. Where possible, stay behind barriers. Stay out of “blind” spots and outside a “safety circle” around equipment. If you can’t see the operator, he/she can’t see you. Make eye contact with the operator to let him or her know that you are there.

Communicate with operators by hand signal and/or eye contact and confirm acknowledgement.

Use spotters when you must work with your back to equipment or traffic.

Never take for granted that the equipment operator see you.

Never depend on hearing an alarm as a warning.

Keep in the clear when the equipment is backing up.

Supervisor to carry out the STARRT and assign the duties to the individuals in the group.

Remember:-Crane operator may not see you, he concentrating on moving his crane into position or swinging his load. Think of the swing area of the Crane and stay out.

Equipment is heavy and has many blind spots. Always assume that the operator doesn’t see you and doesn’t know you are in the area.

Prepared By: Kegin Lookose Tool Box Talk Date: 26th Jan 2015