Operator Alertness                                                                                                      No. 2029

Cranes, cherry pickers, front-end loaders, pickup trucks and dump trucks are only a few examples of equipment moving on the jobsite.  Equipment operators are responsible for operating their equipment safely.  Hazards to workers have always existed, but equipment in the past was slower and noisier. Today, these hazards are greater because equipment moves at higher speeds and with less noise.  Operators today must be alert for anyone working near the equipment and moving from one area to another.

• Operators should watch out for people, other vehicles, and other equipment at all times.  Workers have the right to expect operators to watch out for them.
• Anyone walking or driving in an equipment operation area should always stay out of the way of moving equipment.

MOST ACCIDENTS INVOLVING HEAVY EQUIPMENT RESULT IN VERY SERIOUS INJURIES OR DEATH.  OPERATORS MUST BE ALERT AT ALL TIMES.

Equipment starting out from a stationary position causes more accidents than equipment already in motion.

• A good policy is to walk around a piece of equipment before you start it up, and have someone signal you before backing.
• Always use the back up alarm to let everyone know you are moving.

WATCH WHERE YOU ARE GOING. WITH COOPERATION AND AWARENESS THE JOB WILL BE MUCH SAFER.

NEVER BEGIN WORK UNTIL OPENINGS IN THE FLOOR AND ROOF DECKS ARE PROTECTED.

Generally, there are two types of openings:
 

• First, there are small holes made for pipe, ductwork or small skylights.  Cover this type of opening with plywood or other material sufficiently strong to bear all intended loads and secure it to prevent accidental displacement.
• Second, there are large openings that cannot be covered. OSHA standard guardrails must be installed.

REMINDER - THE TIME TO INSTALL OPENING PROTECTION IS BEFORE LOADING OR OTHER ACTIVITY BEGINS. DELAY IN COVERING THE HOLES INCREASES THE RISK OF ACCIDENTS