When it comes to operating heavy machinery, you have to be knowledgeable. Making the slightest error when operating such machines could lead to some grievous injuries, loss of limbs, or even death.
The US Bureau of Labour revealed that up to 400 people lose their lives each year as a result of heavy equipment accidents. Many who sustained injuries could never return to work again.
This is why as a worker, you have to ensure that whenever you are operating any heavy machinery or any kind of machine at all, you must exercise caution.
Knowing the right thing to do and what not to do can preserve your life – not just yours but everyone else’s. This is all part of Workplace Safety and it is something that you should remember at all times.
So, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when operating heavy machinery.
1. Always Inspect The Machine Before Use:
Before you turn on the machine, inspect it. This helps you know if the machine is in a good state and ready to be used. Check the oil levels, filters, stress points, guards, emergency switches, and so on. Ensure that everything is working as it should.
Create a list of areas and parts you would always inspect and tick them off as you inspect them. No matter how urgently you need to use the machine, carry out this inspection. Even if you used the machine a day before, you should still inspect it. Better safe than sorry!
2. Wear Protective Clothing:
When operating heavy machinery, make sure you are fully kitted. This includes the recommended overall, a helmet, safety goggles, boots, and any other piece of clothing that is recommended for your kind of job. Also, when you are operating a machine (like a crane), make sure you fasten your seatbelt at all times. It does not matter whether you would be in the machine for two minutes or five hours. Make sure you are properly strapped in before setting the machine in motion.
3. Pay Attention To Your Environment:
Before operating the machinery, make it a point to observe your environment. Walk around to see if there are any obstacles or hazards that could get in the way when operating the machinery. Even if it is a site that you visit every day, still make it a point to ensure that your path is clear before you start operating the machinery.
4. Know Your Load Limit:
One thing you should also know when operating heavy machinery, especially one that carries a load, is its load limit. If you attempt to load a piece of equipment beyond the recommended limit, it could cause it to tip over. Overloading a machine means you could make 2 trips instead of 5. Although you’ll save some time, your life could be at risk. Always make sure you load a machine within the permitted load limit.
5. Avoid Ignoring Warning Signs:
Any sign you see or hear that seems out of place should be investigated immediately. Do not ignore any warning sign, no matter how trivial it may seem. It could be a light blinking or small beeping sounds. Whatever it is, take the time to check it out and do not continue using the machine until the warning sign has turned off.
6. Turn Off The Equipment Completely When Done:
At the end of the day, after using the machine, turn it off properly. Do a double-check to make sure that no part of the machine is running. Turn off the machine the right way before getting off.These safety tips would go a long way to protect you and ensure your safety while operating heavy machinery. Another thing to keep in mind, especially if you rent the equipment you use, is to get them from a reliable place. If you are looking to rent access equipment of any sort, then visit https://ezyuphire.com.au/ today. You’ll find a wide range of ready-to-use equipment in perfect conditions.