Link copied!

Using demolition machinery can be dangerous if it’s not handled correctly or by trained operators. Mistakes often happen when training is missed or safety checks are skipped. By making sure your team knows what to do and checking your machinery daily, you can avoid accidents and keep the worksite running smoothly. Here are some simple steps to help you use machinery safely and avoid problems.

Training and supervision
Make sure your team has the right information, training, and instructions required for the task. Having the right people involved means workers will have the skills and experience needed to complete the job safely and the task hazards will be easily identified.

Workers should be adequately trained to operate machinery. To test this knowledge, workers should be monitored and assessed regularly against operating procedures.

Pre-start checks
Always check your equipment is fit for use at the beginning of each day.

A trained and competent machinery operator should be conducting a plant/machinery pre-start check before use. This gives you the certainty that your equipment is good to go for the day and won’t cause you any unexpected problems or delays. Things to check are:

Visual checks before turning the equipment on:

• Fluid and oil levels are sufficient and no leaks
• The battery is clean and charged
• Safety mechanisms are in place, working, and not damaged
• Warning signage is in place and readable
• Attachments, clips, and pins are in working order and without damage
• Hydraulics are undamaged and lubricated

 Stationary function test while equipment is on:

• Horn and reversing alarm sound
• Control panel, lights and pedals are all fully operational
• Bucket and arms fully extend and tilt as required

 Moving function test:

• Steering is in good order
• Brakes function

Quick hitches, safety locks and exclusion zones
Quick hitches allow you to quickly and easily change buckets or attachments on your machinery. Approximately 13% of all accidents investigated on excavators are attributed to the bucket detaching from a quick hitch device and injuring a ground worker. These are mostly fatal and major injuries. When using quick hitches and attachments you should always check the following:

• Is the attachment the right size and is it in working order
• Has the attachment been fitted correctly
• Is the safety locking pin in place and secured
• Has an exclusion zone been set up

 Failing to check these could mean your bucket becomes detached or someone could get hit.

All quick hitches should clearly display the following information:

• the model and serial number
• the manufacturer’s name
• the weight and maximum rated capacity
• each lifting point’s capacity. 

Quick hitches used with excavators are required to have a thorough examination by a competent person. If permanently attached this should be done 12 monthly else if not permanently attached it’s 6 monthly.

Safety locking pins need to meet the quick hitch manufacturer’s specifications and should be kept with the machinery or quick hitch device when not in use. Ensure that attachments are fitted with the correct pin centres and diameters.

Exclusion zones should be clearly marked out and all those working nearby should be informed. The hazards, risks and controls for machinery on-site should be covered in your job safety plan and shared with all on-site.

If you have any questions get in touch with the HazardCo Team today