7.1 Mobile work equipment hazards and control measures

Question 1

Mobile work equipment is

Answer 1

any work equipment which carries out work while it is travelling, or which travels between different locations where it is used to carry out work. The equipment is typically moved on wheels, tracks, rollers, skids, etc. and may be self-propelled, towed or remote controlled and may incorporate attachments.

Question 2

FOPS:

Answer 2

if falling objects are a concern a falling object protective structure (FOPS) is required.

Question 3

ROPS:

Answer 3

if rolling through more than 90o is a concern a rolling over protective structure (ROPS) is required.

Question 4

The main hazards associated with forklift trucks are:

Answer 4

(1) Instability of the truck. (2) Falling loads. (3) Hazards associated with propulsion systems. (4) Truck falling from loading bays or goods vehicles. (5) Collisions with pedestrians or other vehicles. (6) Collisions with structures, warehouse racking, etc.

Question 5

Operator training should be carried out by a competent person and always include the three stages of training:

Answer 5

(1) Basic training: the basic skills and knowledge required for safe operation. (2) Specific job training: knowledge of the workplace, operating principles and controls of the lift truck to be used, and experience of any special site rules, systems of work and specific handling attachments. (3) Familiarisation training: operation on the job under close supervision.

Question 6

At the beginning of each shift the operator should check the lift truck and report to the supervisor any defects which might affect its safe operation to ensure they are put right. Checks should include: 8

Answer 6

(a) Tyre pressures – ensuring that pneumatic tyres if fitted are inflated to the proper pressure. (b) Tyres checks – signs of damage such as swarf, nails or other embedded material, cuts and bubbles. (c) Parking brake, service brakes, and steering gear to ensure that they are working efficiently. (d) Fuel, water and oil levels (internal combustion engines) to check for leaks. (e) Batteries of battery-operated lift trucks to check: - that they are adequately charged and leak free - that the charger is switched off - the charge lead disconnected and properly stored - the battery retention device is in place. (f) Systems for lifting, tilting and manipulation, including attachments are working properly. (g) Hydraulic systems should be free from obvious leaks, and hydraulic fluid levels should be correct when the fork arms are in the parked position. (h) Audible warning signals, lights, and mirrors, if fitted, should all be in good working order.

Question 7

A company is planning a change of premises from one containing a ‘manual’ warehouse to one which contains automated order picking and automated guided vehicle (AGV) goods transfer facilities. (a) Outline the risks which might be reduced by the move. 10 marks (b) Outline the risks which might arise from the move. 10 marks

Answer 7

(a) Risks which might be reduced by the move to AGVs include:  reduction in manual handling  working at height  collisions with forklift trucks  not being in the vicinity of the warehouse would reduce noise issues or other issues associated with driving forklifts  absence of forklift trucks posing a lower source of ignition risk  reduction of heating and lighting costs  avoidance of human error. (b) Risks which might arise from the move to AGVs include:  Collision between AGVs and people.  Trapping points between AGVs and stationary objects or fixed structures.  Dangerous occurrences by inadvertent movement of the AGV, for example: where AGVs interact with storage and retrieval machines and the load may be displaced or collapsed, or other devices may be impacted upon.