topic 6: HAZARDS WHEN WORKING AROUND HEAVY EQUIPMENT Flashcards
KEY TO PREVENTING OR
REDUCING EQUIPMENT
RELATED INJURIES
mitigate potentially dangerous conditions and make all workers aware of their situation
() is an all-encompassing term describing worker alertness and knowledge of their job site surroundings.
situational awareness
THREE PRIMARY PRINCIPLES FOR DEFINING AND IDENTIFYING WORKSITE HAZARDS
- mechanical hazards
- non mechanical hazards
- access hazards
- All heavy construction equipment has moving parts. It’s the energy stored and being capable of releasing from machinery parts that present danger.
- When working around machines, watch for moving parts that can reach people. Also, machinery and equipment that can eject objects and strike someone can be dangerous.
Mechanical Hazards
Common () include rotating shafts, colliding surfaces, scissor or shear action, sharp edges, and detachable connections.
Mechanical Hazards
Worker hazards from () means also include noxious substances like exhaust emissions and chemical by-products. As well, consider the noise hazard that heavy equipment operation generates.
non-mechanical hazards
Common non-mechanical hazards are:
- Dust
- Explosive or flammable atmospheres
- Radiated and conducted heat
- High noise levels and vibrations
- Handling heavy loads manually
- Steam releases
- Entering locations with confined spaces and microclimates
Important considerations for mitigating () are considering who is allowed into a hazardous area or situation and what equipment and materials are in operation.
access hazards
() must be predicted and planned in advance rather than reacting to an unexpected situation. The most effective solution for minimizing access accidents is effectively communicating all information concerning mechanical and non-mechanical heavy equipment hazards.
Access control
Hazard mitigation involves a series of orders for controlling potentially dangerous situations. If at all possible, hazards should be eliminated altogether or at least substituted by something less dangerous
COMMUNICATION AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT SAFETY
The () is a method of identifying and ranking safeguards to protect workers from hazards. They are arranged from the most to least effective and include elimination, substitution, engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment.
hierarchy of controls
() makes sure the hazard no longer exists.
Examples:
* Ending the use of a hazardous material
* Doing work at ground level rather than at heights
* Stopping the use of noisy processes
Elimination
() means changing out a material or process to reduce the hazard.
Examples:
* Switching to a less hazardous material
* Switching to a process that uses less force, speed, temperature, or electrical current
Substitution
() reduce exposure by preventing hazards from coming into contact with workers. They still allow workers to do their jobs.
Examples:
* Noise enclosures
* Local exhaust ventilation
* Guardrail system
* Machine guards
* Interlocks
* Lift equipment
Engineering controls
() change the way work is done or give workers more information by providing workers with relevant procedures, training, or warnings. They’re often used together with higher-level controls.
They include:
* Procedures, such as equipment inspections, planned preventive maintenance, checklists, lockout/tagout/tryout, infection prevention and control practices, changing work schedules, pre- and post-task reviews, and rotation of workers.
* Training on topics such as hazard communication, permit-required confined space entry, lockout/tagout/tryout, and safe work procedures *Warnings, such as signs, backup alarms, smoke detectors, computer messages, mirrors, horns, labels, and instructions
Administrative controls
() includes clothing and devices to protect workers. PPE needs constant effort and attention (including proper use and training) from workers. Higher-level controls aren’t always feasible, and PPE might be needed in conjunction with other control measures.
Examples:
* Safety glasses Hardhats
* Systems and related equipment
* Personal Fall Protection
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
What Are Feasible Controls?
- Respirators
- Hearing protection
- Protective clothing
SAFETY REGULATIONS FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENTS
- OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration):
- PPE Requirements:
- Equipment Inspection Protocols:
Mandates training, equipment inspection, and safety standards
for equipment operation
- OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration):
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory, including helmets, high-visibility clothing, and gloves.
PPE Requirements:
Equipment must be regularly
inspected for mechanical issues before being used on-site.
Equipment Inspection Protocols:
BEST PRACTICES FOR
HEAVY EQUIPMENT SAFETY
- Equipment Inspection
- Operator Training
- Site Layout and Safety Zones
- Communication and Signaling
- Load Handling
- Conduct daily inspections before use.
- Check for mechanical issues, fluid leaks, tire pressure, etc.
Equipment Inspection
- Only qualified and certified individuals should operate heavy equipment.
- Provide continuous training to update skills and safety awareness.
Operator Training
- Establish safety zones for workers on foot and maintain safe distances from equipment.
- Use barricades and spotters to guide operators in tight spaces.
Site Layout and Safety Zones
Use radios, hand signals, and designated spotters to communicate with operators.
Communication and Signaling
- Ensure loads are secured properly.
- Follow weight limits and never exceed the equipment’s capacity.
Load Handling
