Machinery and Vehicular Safety

Landscaping Related Activities Excavating, grading, and site preparation Transporting stone, sand, and mulch Mowing and cutting Loading, transporting, and unloading Wood chipping and shredding

Hazardous Conditions and Unsafe Acts Not inspecting, operating, and maintaining machinery according to the manufacturer Operating defective machinery Not reading and following all warning labels Untrained or unauthorized operation Taking unnecessary risks Not taking proper vehicular traffic precautions Operating too close to underground and overhead utilities.

Potential outcomes Crushed or struck-by machinery Caught in moving parts Amputations Struck-by flying debris or striking the public with flying debris Struck-by motor vehicles during loading and unloading activities Fires, explosions, and electrocution

Unsafe Work Practices can be Deadly.

WV FACE Fatal Fact A worker was trimming trees and dumping brush over a steep bank. He was not wearing his seat belt. The drop-off had no barricade or stop log. He accidentally rolled over the bank’s edge. He was crushed by his tractor.

Preventing Machine Hazards There are thousands of machine-related injuries each year. Proper training can prevent these injuries. Workers should know how to operate a piece of machinery and inspect for problem areas before turning on the power. Workers are more likely to be seriously injured or killed in incidents involving motor vehicles than from any other workplace hazard. Fully loaded trucks are slower and more difficult to steer than passenger vehicles. Hauling heavy loads to and from job sites requires special training and knowledge. Failure to observe safety precautions when operating tractors and attachments can result in serious injury or death. The most common types of serious accidents are: rollovers, runovers, being caught in moving parts, and collisions. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PrMachHzES.pdf http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2708.pdf http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2709.pdf

Preoperational Considerations Have you reviewed the owner's manual? Are the Warning decals in place? Are the machine guards properly placed and in good condition? Are air and hydraulic lines in good condition and not leaking? Is the setup a proper setup? Is the work zone free from hazards? Safe motor vehicle operation begins before you start the engine. You can help prevent accidents by performing a pre-start inspection of the vehicle and towed equipment. Alert your supervisor if you find anything wrong during your inspection. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PrMachHzES.pdf http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2709.pdf

Personal Protection Wear personal protective equipment, such as goggles, safety shoes and leather gloves. Long hair should be tucked under to avoid getting caught in machinery. Avoid wearing jewelry. Safety curtains may not catch all flying objects. Use personal protective equipment to prevent injury from anything thrown --- personal eye protection, protective gloves, and safety shoes. Wear safety glasses to prevent eye damage due to flying debris. Wear snug-fitting clothing. This lessens the chance of clothing catching on a moving part. Avoid wearing jewelry, hair styles, or loose clothing that might get caught on machinery. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PrMachHzES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/SafTrcSPES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf

Machine Maintenance Safety Keep machines repaired, lubricated, and adjusted. Clearly mark control switches and valves that control machines. Check machines for emergency stop switches Describe how to operate all controls on the equipment. Keep the equipment in good working condition. Do not modify equipment. Do not modify the safety devices. Unauthorized modification can impair the operation and safety of the equipment. Emergency stop switches should be located on or near the machine so the machine can be turned off quickly if a malfunction occurs. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PrMachHzES.pdf

While Operating Machines Stay away from moving parts. Turn power off and remove key before working around or performing maintenance on the machine. Use appropriate lockout and tagout procedures to prevent equipment from being re-energized while work is being performed on or around it. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PrMachHzES.pdf

No Riders on Equipment Most equipment does not have an extra seat, but some workers allow riders. Any rider for any reason is a safety hazard. Most importantly a rider could: Fall from the equipment. Be run over. Become entangled in equipment. Be killed. Advance planning helps avoid the need for riders. You can plan other transportation if additional workers are needed at the work site. An extra rider may block the driver's view or movement. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/NoRidersES.pdf

Riding and Walk Behind Mowers Failure to observe safety precautions when operating mowing equipment can result in serious injury or death. The most common types of serious accidents are: rollovers and being caught in moving parts. http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2714.pdf

Hazards of Mowers A power lawn mower can result in serious injuries. The blade travels at 100 to 200 miles per hour. This landscaper’s life will never be the same. A power lawn mower can be dangerous and cause serious injuries. A rotary mower blade whirls at 2,000 and 4,000 revolutions per minute. The tip of the blade travels at 100 to 200 miles per hour. For safety reasons, it is important to know how to quickly disengage the clutch and stop the engine. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf

Hazards of Mowers Objects can be thrown from the mower at very high rates of speed. Before mowing remove debris from lawn. Keep all guards and safety shields in place. Safety glasses should be worn at all times unless operating equipment with an enclosed cab. A face shield should be used, in addition to safety glasses, when operating a string/brush trimmer and other times when your face could be hit by debris. Guards and shields protect you from moving parts. Check the operator’s manual for the location of guards and safety shields on the equipment you are using. When operating a riding mower ensure that the discharge chute’s guard is in place to deflect debris and cover the mower’s blade. Also, if your equipment has any belts or pulleys, make sure the guards are in place and secured. Also, check that the operator presence control is working properly. The control shuts the mower off automatically when weight is lifted off of the seat. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2714.pdf

General Power Mower Safety Begin by reading the operator’s manual. Wear protective, close-fitting clothing. Use hearing protection if indicated by the operator’s manual. Take mowers out of gear before starting. Read all warning labels. Obey the warning labels! http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf

Danger and warning labels often tell you the hazards of operating the machine and safety precautions you should take.

Leave Safety Devices Alone! Never disengage or bypass any safety guard or interlock switch. This mower now has the ability to amputate and throw objects at deadly speeds. Safety devices are designed to keep you safe. So leave them alone and let them do their job. Do not tamper with or remove safety attachments, machine guards or safety labels. Use attachments that are designed specifically for the machine you are using and for the task you are doing. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/landscaping/tractors.html

Prevent Dangerous Fires! Never fill the gasoline tank if the engine is running. Store gasoline in an approved, properly labeled container. Never store gasoline or any other material in a food container. The hot engine can cause the fuel to ignite. Always shut off the engine and wait at least 5 minutes for the engine to cool before refueling. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2714.pdf

Store Fuel Properly! Danger Approved safety cans are made from metal or very low conductivity plastic. Safety cans have spring-mounted spout caps. These automatically open when the vapor pressure builds up inside, to allow vapors to escape and prevent rupture (or explosion, in the event of fire). The cap-operating mechanisms also cause the spout cap to close automatically when you finish filling or pouring from the safety can, or if the can is dropped. Safety cans may also have wire mesh flame arrester screens inside the cap spouts. These prevent flashbacks from reaching the liquid in the cans. http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/prevention/flammable_general.html#_1_10

General Power Mower Safety Disconnect the spark plug before repairing mower. Turn off motor before removing a foreign object. Provide routine maintenance. Warn humans and pets to stay away from operating mowers. Turn off machine, disconnect spark plug wire, if accessible (or remove the ignition key), shifting to neutral gear, set the brakes or take other precautions to prevent the equipment from moving, and wait for all moving or rotating parts to stop before unclogging the equipment, emptying grass-catching attachments (if used), or doing any other work on the machine. Stop the equipment and inspect for damage if the mower blade or other attachment hits a hard object. If damaged it should be repaired (and blades balanced, if necessary) or replaced before starting the equipment again. Use caution when working in the vicinity of schools or parks where children may be at play. Ensure that bystanders do not remain in the area while you are mowing. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/landscaping/tractors.html

Riding Mower Precautions Turn off the mower before getting off. When mowing on a slope with a riding mower, you should mow down the slope. Be aware of power take offs. Wear a seat belt all of the time when the mower is equipped with ROPS. For Riding Lawn Mowers/Agricultural Tractors mow up and down slopes, not across. Your mower can become unbalanced and overturn on slopes, if you do not drive in the correct direction. Mowing up and down slopes can help prevent a side rollover. You must wear a seat belt in a machine for the rollover protection to work properly. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2714.pdf

Make Seatbelts a Habit! This landscaper isn’t taking any chances. Using the belt will ensure he remains within the safety zone provided by the roll over protective structure. Seatbelts should be used 100% of the time. Seat belts should not be used on tractors without ROPS.

Walk Behind Mower Precautions Start push mowers from a firm stance with feet in a safe position. When mowing on a slope with a push mower, you should mow across the slope. In the event of a fall, push the mower away from the body. Mow across slopes, not up and down, to keep you from sliding underneath the mower. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2714.pdf

This Worker Had a Close Call Anything with rotating blades can do damage to your body. Keep all parts of your body away from lawnmower blades.

Dress for the Task at Hand Sturdy shoes are a must; steel-toed work boots are advised. Long pants and long sleeve shirts protect from flying debris, grass clippings, and sun. Safety glasses or goggles, especially when mowing near solid objects like gravel driveways. Hearing protection may be necessary. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf

Wear the right shoes! A poor choice of foot wear. Steel toed boots with lugged soles should be worn. The steel toe will help protect your feet. The lugged soles will help prevent slipping. This worker could easily lose a toe if his foot slips underneath the riding lawnmower. Sturdy shoes are a must; steel-toed work boots are advised. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf

Additional Information http://www.cete.org/Trainer/EquipCutES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/NoRidersES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/PowerLwnES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/RotLwnBrES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/SmallEngES.pdf OSH Answers: Riding Lawn Mowers http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2708.pdf

TRACTORS and ATTACHMENTS Failure to observe safety precautions while operating tractors and attachments can result in serious injury or death. The most common types of serious accidents are: rollovers, runovers, being caught in moving parts, and collisions. http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2708.pdf

Tractor Hazards A tractor is a useful piece of equipment to landscapers, but misuse can be deadly. A tractor can overturn often crushing the operator. Operators can be entangled in PTO shafts and other rotating parts. People can be struck-by flying objects when using pull behind rotary mower attachments. Tractor rollovers account for 50% of tractor related deaths in the United States. Distracted operators, speed, and rough or uneven ground are leading causes of tractor rollover. Tractors are powerful machines. They require careful attention to operate and service. New tractors are equipped with safety devices. These devices provide a reasonable amount of protection. Practice good safety habits. Be aware of hazardous situations. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/RollROPSES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/SafTrcSPES.pdf

Preventing Overturns Safe work practices are necessary. Most overturns occur to the side. Select a low gear and match speed to conditions and loads. If a front-end loader is mounted, keep it as low as possible. Always remember, If you are uncomfortable on the slope, it’s too steep. Side rollovers are the most common type of rollover accident. The occur when the tractor becomes unbalanced, often while it is being driven across a hill, carrying a load too high, or traveling too fast across uneven ground. Drive slowly, when speed is increased the risk of a rollover also increases. Operate controls smoothly. Avoid jerky starts, turns and stops that cause the tractor to become unstable. Reduce speed when turning, crossing slopes or when traveling on rough, slick or muddy surfaces. Avoid running over obstacles that can cause the tractor to tip over. Don’t overload the tractor or attachments. Check the capacity label or data plate for maximum load limit. Don’t go over that limit or the tractor may become unstable and roll over. Consult your owners manual for proper counterweight usage. Turn downhill, not uphill, if stability becomes uncertain on slopes or ramps. When you must operate on a slope, keep the heavy end of the tractor facing uphill. Do not try to cross steep slopes. http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2708.pdf http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/tractors/rollover.html

Preventing Overturns Rear overturns pose a threat as well. It may be possible to back up slopes or drive forward down slopes that are too steep to traverse. Shift to the lowest gear that will be needed before climbing the slope - don’t change gears on the slope. In a backwards tip, the tractor can hit the ground in less than one and a half seconds. Factors that cause a tractor to tip over backward depend upon the load and the height of the hitch from the ground. Hitch only at the manufacturer's recommended height. Engage the clutch pedal slowly and smoothly. Be ready to disengage power quickly if the front end begins to come up. Start forward motion slowly and change speed gradually. Use counterweights to increase tractor stability. Follow manufacturer's instructions. Avoid backing downhill. Drive around ditches, not across them. Back your tractor out when stuck or tow the stuck machine out with another tractor. Turn downhill when working across a slope. Drive straight down even the gentlest slope. Do not drive diagonally across it. Do not hitch a load higher than the tractor draw-bar. Do not coast downhill. Before starting down, shift to a lower gear that prevents freewheeling and excessive braking. Try to use the same gear to go down a hill that you would use to pull the load uphill. http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/tractors/rollover.html

Preventing Overturns Look your work area over for ditches, drop-offs and stream banks. Consider marking or barricading bank edges storage areas, and other frequently traveled work zones. Before you start, check the work area for debris, obstacles, ditches, and holes. They could cause the tractor to overturn. Stay away from the edge of ditches and streams. Stay ten feet or more away from ditches and steep slopes. Slow down to maintain control. Stay ten feet or more from a riverbank. The bank may be steep. Slow down to maintain control. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/RollROPSES.pdf

Rollover Protective Structure A rollover protective structure (ROPS) will offer significant protection. These roll-bars are designed to withstand the dynamic forces during a rollover. Using the seat belt is necessary to ensure that you remain within the “zone of protection” provided by the ROPS. ROPS do not prevent rollovers, but they are 99.9% effective in preventing death or serious injury. Many tractors without ROPS are still in use. They contribute to the fatality rate because they are not ROPS and seat belt equipped. ROPS must meet regulations and standards that certify that they provide adequate protection in a tractor rollover. To find out if a frame or enclosure is certified, look for a certification label, contact the manufacturer, or check for the presence of a manufacturer installed seat belt. Install and use seat belts on tractors with ROPS. Seat belts ensure that the operator stays within the zone of protection offered by the ROPS during a mishap. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/RollROPSES.pdf

Tractor Attachments Knowing the capabilities of the tractor allows for the use of the right attachment for the job. The operator’s manual will help determine if the attachment is designed for the job. Add front counterweights to tractors with rear-mounted attachments for improved steering control and stability. Avoid crushing and entanglement points. Do not stand between a tractor and an implement. Make sure all guards are in place (master and integral shields). Damaged guards and shields should be repaired or replaced immediately. http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/tractors/attachments.html

Additional Information http://www.cete.org/Trainer/SafTrcSPES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/SafStartES.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/RollROPSES.pdf OSH Answers: Tractors NIOSH FACE Program: Colorado Case Report 95CO094 | CDC/NIOSH http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2708.pdf

Heavy Equipment Many landscaping and horticultural businesses use trucks and trailers to transport equipment and plants to worksites. Types of equipment can include lawn mowers; both push type and riding type, small backhoes, tractors, dump trucks, etc. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/EqPlntTrES.pdf

Heavy Equipment Dangers Run-over or struck-by equipment Caught between solid objects and moving equipment Caught between moving parts or elevated components and the ground Falling from machines or overturning equipment Contacting overhead or underground utilities Amputation due to cutting action Entanglement in moving parts Struck-by flying debris and rocks Leading to injury or death

Causes of Equipment Accidents Improper set-up and/or use of equipment Not following manufacturers instructions and warning labels Defective equipment Unsafe work practices Read, understand, and follow instructions in the manufacturer's operating manual and safety decals on the loader. Know how to operate the equipment safely and be familiar with the location and function of all the controls. Check the following before starting the engine: fuel and oil, hydraulic fluid, cooling system fluid, operator cab, seat belt and seat bar, lift arm and cylinder pivot points, and tires. Turn off the engine before attempting any repairs or adjustments. Set the parking brakes on before getting off the seat. Lower the bucket before dismounting from the loader. http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/landscaping/compact_loaders.html

Dump Body Accident Driver freeing stuck cable without strong positive means of dump body support. Cable is freed Dump body drops Driver is crushed This driver died ! Correctly chocking or blocking the raised bed would have prevented this incident by preventing and/or arresting the energy source before contacting the victim.   http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/face/stateface/wv/98wv029.html

Heavy Equipment Safety Inspected, operated and maintained according to the manufacturer. Operated by designated employees. Operated so no hazards are created for other workers. Practice safe excavation techniques. Know how to operate the equipment safely and be familiar with the location and function of all the controls. Always be aware of the location of workers on the ground. Workers on the ground stay away from crush points between the equipment and other objects and always let the operator of the equipment know where you are.

Additional Information NIOSH FACE Program: Massachusetts Case Report 96MA016 | CDC/NIOSH NIOSH FACE Program: Minnesota Case Report 92MN009 | CDC/NIOSH NIOSH FACE Program: New Jersey Case Report 02NJ025 | CDC/NIOSH

Excavation Safety Facts Each year as many as 400 workers die and another 4000 are injured from cave-ins. Most deaths are in trenches 5-14 ft deep. Cave-ins cause deaths by; Suffocation, Crushing, Loss of Circulation and Falling Objects. One cubic foot of soil can weigh up to 140lbs One cubic yard can weigh 3000 lbs. Taking safety precautions during trenching jobs may seem to waste time and money. However, if safety precautions are not taken, costly and even fatal accidents can occur. In addition to the loss of human life, possible costs of a trenching accident include: Work delays to save the victim. Extra time and labor to re-excavate the collapsed trench. Worker compensation costs and increased insurance fees. Extra paperwork due to the investigation of the accident. Fines may also be imposed. Soil is a very heavy material. It may weigh more than 140 pounds per cubic foot. A cubic yard of soil (3ft x 3 ft x 3 ft) contains 27 cubic feet of material. Thus, it may weigh more than 3,000 pounds. That is nearly one and a half tons in a space less than the size of the average office desk. One and a half tons is the same weight as a car. Wet soil, rocky soil or rock is usually heavier. A worker can easily be crushed under the weight of these materials in a trenching accident. www.osha.gov http://www.cete.org/Trainer/TrenchExES.pdf

Excavation Hazards Cave-ins (the greatest hazard) Fires, Explosions, Electrocutions and Engulfments due to utility hits Struck by falling objects Falls into excavation Equipment rollovers Hazardous atmospheres www.osha.gov

Injury and Death Excavating is one of the most hazardous construction operations Most accidents occur in trenches 5-15 feet deep There is usually no warning before a cave-in Proper design, construction and placement of support structures will create a safe work environment. Trench failures often occur in multiples. Usually, soil near the bottom of the trench wall will move first. After the base fails, the entire wall will quickly erode. The wall will then collapse. www.osha.gov http://www.cete.org/Trainer/TrenchExES.pdf

Excavation Safety Never enter a vertical sided trench unless it is less then 5 feet deep and determined to be safe. Never enter a trench deeper then 5 feet unless a protective system is used. Sloping, shoring, and shielding are examples of protective systems. Sloping may be the easiest for landscapers. Trenches less than 5 feet - a competent person must inspect to determine that a protection system is not necessary in soils where there is no indication of a potential cave-in. In hazardous soil conditions trenches under 5 feet need protection Reference 1926.650 Shield (shield system) -- a structure able to withstand a cave-in and protect employees with the structure. Shields can be permanent structure or can be designed to be portable and moved along as work progresses. Also known as trench box or trench shield. Shoring (shoring system) -- a structure such as a metal hydraulic, mechanical or timber shoring system that supports the sides of an excavation and which is designed to prevent cave-ins. Sloping (sloping system) -- protects employees from cave-ins by excavating to form sides of an excavation that are inclined away from the excavation to prevent cave-ins. The angle of incline varies with differences in such factors as the soil type, environmental conditions of exposure, and application of surcharge loads. The type of soil at the work site should be identified to reveal the level of danger. This is necessary to provide a safe work site. www.osha.gov

Excavation Safety-sloping This is the acceptable slope for any kind of soil. Excavations should be sloped as close as possible to this configuration. Sloping. Move soil away from the sides of the trench until the walls are at a safe angle from the floor of the trench. The soil will remain at rest at angles ranging from 90 degrees to 26 degrees. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/TrenchExES.pdf

Excavation Safety Make sure a ladder is within 25 feet of your work zone when deeper then 4 feet. Make sure excavated dirt and rocks are kept back at least 2 feet from the edge. Take precautions to ensure tools, materials, and equipment won’t roll or fall in. Test the air in areas suspect to atmospheric hazards. Reference 1926.651(c(1 A stairway, ladder, or ramp must be present in excavations that are 4 or more feet deep, and within 25 feet of the employees. The ladder should extend 3 feet above the top of the excavation All excavated or fill materials should be placed at least two feet away from the top edge of the trench. Materials may need to be placed closer than two feet from the edge of the trench. If so, install an effective barrier to prevent them from falling into the trench. www.osha.gov http://www.cete.org/Trainer/TrenchExES.pdf

Excavation Safety Work defensively, keep track of overhead hazards which could fall in on you. Never work under suspended loads. Never work under equipment or equipment components. Stay out of the equipment’s swing radius and blind spots. To protect employees from these hazards, OSHA requires the employer to take the following precautions: • Keep materials or equipment that might fall or roll into an excavation at least 2 feet from the edge of excavations, or have retaining devices, or both. • Provide warning systems such as mobile equipment, barricades, hand or mechanical signals, or stop logs, to alert operators of the edge of an excavation. If possible, keep the grade away from the excavation. • Provide scaling to remove loose rock or soil or install protective barricades and other equivalent protection to protect employees against falling rock, soil, or materials. • Prohibit employees from working on faces of sloped or benched excavations at levels above other employees unless employees at lower levels are adequately protected from the hazard of falling, rolling, or sliding material or equipment. • Prohibit employees under loads that are handled by lifting or digging equipment. To avoid being struck by any spillage or falling materials, require employees to stand away from vehicles being loaded or unloaded. If cabs of vehicles provide adequate protection from falling loads during loading and unloading operations, the operators may remain in them. www.osha.gov

Additional Information http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_Hurricane_Facts/trench_excavation_fs.pdf http://www.cete.org/Trainer/TrenchExES.pdf

Defensive Machine Operation Practice defensive operation at all times. This means that you must understand: The machine’s capacity and stability limitations Operating techniques and procedures The task at hand That using good judgment and professional skill is always needed The manufacturer’s recommended operator safety instructions and warning labels!

Read and Follow all Warnings Warnings on machinery are meant to let you know the hazards and precautions you should take during operation.

Defensive Machine Operation Before leaving a machine, operator must secure it by setting parking brake, placing transmission in park, placing each moving part to the ground, and discharging stored energy. Equipment must be operated so no hazards are created for other workers Set the parking brake when the truck is parked so it will not roll. If you have to park on a slope, you must also adjust your front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling into traffic. If facing uphill with a curb, turn the wheels away from the curb. Otherwise, turn the wheels toward the curb or roadside. Always engage the parking brake. Use the horn to indicate when you are backing unless the truck is equipped with an automatic back up alarm. Be aware of blind spots, especially when turning and making lane changes. Big trucks have blind spots: directly in front, on either side and directly behind the truck. The size of the blind spot varies with the size of the truck. Be aware of where coworkers are before moving. Never carry people in the cargo area of the truck. They can fall or be thrown. http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2709.pdf

Inspections are Important Should be done at the beginning of each day. Report problems to your supervisor. Defects that affect safe operation must be corrected. Defective machines can kill !

What Do You Inspect ? Manufacturers will have pre-start inspection lists. Start at the same point each time and work your way around. Read, understand, and follow manufacturer's operating manual. Know how to operate the vehicle and use any related equipment or attachments safety. Be familiar with the location and function of all the controls. Inspect your vehicle daily. Develop a routine method of inspecting vehicle. http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/landscaping/vehicle.html

Operate Equipment According to the Manufacturer Following the manufacturer’s instructions is important. OSHA requires it ! A copy must be kept with the equipment. Read and follow the operator’s safety manual. Keep safety signs in good repair. Replace them as needed. When a part is replaced, transfer the safety equipment to the new part. Replacement safety signs can be bought from a dealer. Know how to operate all controls on the equipment. Keep the equipment in good working condition. Do not modify equipment. Do not modify the safety devices. Unauthorized modification can impair the operation and safety of the equipment. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/SafTrcSPES.pdf

Protective Structures for Operators Protective structures are cabs, FOPS, and ROPS. Most equipment has one of the above systems. Protects operators from rollovers and falling objects. Must be used with the seat belt! Enclosures on older tractors were designed for operator comfort not for rollover protection. They are not considered ROPS. ROPS must meet regulations and standards that certify that they provide adequate protection in a tractor rollover. To find out if a frame or enclosure is certified, look for a certification label, contact the manufacturer, or check for the presence of a manufacturer installed seat belt. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/RollROPSES.pdf

Required Seatbelt Use ROPS, FOPS or overhead guards means you must wear your seat belt. Each year many workers are killed by rollovers without belt use. There’s no time to jump or hang on ! Install and use seat belts on tractors with ROPS. Seat belts ensure that the operator stays within the zone of protection offered by the ROPS during a mishap. Seat belts should not be used on tractors without ROPS. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/RollROPSES.pdf

Additional Information http://www.cete.org/Trainer/RollROPSES.pdf

Visibility and Safety All vehicle and machine glass must be kept clean. Free from scratches. Broken, missing or cracked glass must be replaced. Visibility and safety go hand in hand ! If you have poor visibility, the chance of an accident increases.

Fire Prevention Each piece of equipment must have its own extinguisher. Each extinguisher must be fully charged. Extinguishers should be inspected at the beginning of each shift. The fire extinguisher must be quickly accessible in an emergency situation. Keep extinguishers clear of clutter and debris.

Ground Crew Safety Never place yourself in the direct path of moving equipment or equipment that may move unintentionally. Realize that equipment has blind spots. Work defensively around equipment. Never assume the operator of a large machine can see you. They may not and it could result in an accident. When equipment is not being operated, make sure it will remain stationary with setting parking breaks and other devices.

Ground Crew Safety Approach equipment only after making eye contact and signaling the operator, wait for their approval. Never place yourself within the swing radius or path of moving components. (especially under) Never stand directly between wheels or on tracks when talking to the operator. As a member of the ground crew, never put yourself in a position where there is a hazard of pinching, crushing, or run-over in case the operator of the equipment doesn’t see you or the equipment moves unexpectedly.

Make sure they know you are there before approaching an operator. Always make eye contact with the operator and make sure the operator knows you are there before approaching the equipment.

A very dangerous place to be. This worker is in danger of being run-over by the bulldozer if the dozer unexpectedly moves.

This worker is taking no chances. By standing here the worker is not in the way of the dozer if it moves.

Worker in dangerous blind spot The operator of this bulldozer may not be able to see the worker crouched behind the equipment. Never assume the operator can see you or knows you are there. Never get in the path of a vehicle like this, and especially don’t turn your back to it. Unfortunately, accidents like this are all too common.

Moving parts and flying debris Factory guards in place at all times. Guards must protect worker from moving parts. Guards must protect the worker from flying debris. Avoid thrown object injuries by allowing the machine to come to a complete stop before approaching the discharge area. Keep the discharge chute pointed away from bystanders. Wear eye protection to protect yourself from thrown objects. Consult the owners manual regarding proper shielding for the operator. http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2708.pdf

Most importantly, working safely around heavy equipment requires good judgment. Don’t takes risks like this worker is doing. Do not use the bucket lift people or use as a work platform.

Chocking and Blocking Workers can be caught between a vehicle and the equipment or a piece of equipment and the shop wall because the proper chocking procedures were not followed. It is a simple concept, but many workers forget to use this procedure when working with or around equipment. In some cases, workers have been killed or injured because they have failed to follow this procedure. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/ChockBlkES.pdf

Equipment Shifting Dangers Serious injuries can happen when a vehicle or piece of equipment moves while it is being worked on. Chocking and blocking prevent movement and prevent injuries. Chocking the vehicle or equipment keeps it from rolling forward or backward. Blocking the vehicle or equipment keeps it from falling on workers under it. Chocking the vehicle or equipment keeps it from rolling forward or backward. Blocking the vehicle or equipment keeps it from falling on workers under it. The reason behind chocking and blocking is the same: secure the vehicle or equipment to prevent movement. Movement can cause injuries or even death --- so it should always be prevented. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/ChockBlkES.pdf

Chocking When unhooking towed equipment, make sure the tires on the equipment have been chocked. Do not rely on the equipment’s brakes. The rear-most axle should be the one that is chocked. Tires may need to be chocked in both the front and the rear on some equipment. The purpose of the chock is to secure the wheels and hold them stationary. When unhooking towed equipment from a tractor or truck, make sure the tires on the equipment have been chocked to prevent the operator or bystanders from being injured if a roll back occurs. Do not rely on the equipment’s brakes. The rear-most axle should be the one that is chocked. Tires may need to be chocked in both the front and the rear on some equipment. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/ChockBlkES.pdf

Blocking When working on equipment, never rely only on jacks or hoists to support the equipment. The equipment should be blocked. Use jacks or hoists only to raise the equipment. Jack-stands are considered blocking. When working on equipment, never rely only on jacks or hoists to support the equipment. The equipment should be blocked to support it while you are working on it. Use jacks or hoists only to raise the equipment. Then, build a platform of solid blocks to hold the equipment up in place. Be sure to keep your hands, fingers, and feet away --- never put them between the equipment and the blocks. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/ChockBlkES.pdf

Loading and Unloading of Equipment Loading and unloading equipment safely takes an effort. Many workers have been killed before the job starts. What are the hazards? What can we do? Loading docks and warehouses are full of forklifts and other material handling devices, powered or un-powered. Two common serious accidents involving powered industrial trucks are: Backing off of the dock and Overturns (turning too fast with the wheels too close to the edge of the dock). While loading or unloading a truck or trailer, be sure that the parking brake is set and that the wheels are chocked. This will keep the truck or trailer from accidentally moving while it is being loaded or unloaded. http://www.cete.org/Trainer/LoadDockES.pdf

Equipment Unloading Accident Operator unloading dozer without wearing a seat belt Dozer begins to slide off trailer Operator tries to jump Operator is crushed by dozer ! Always put on your seat belt every time you get into the equipment.

This is NOT How You Should Transport a Riding Mower!

TRAFFIC CONTROL From time to time your work site may be located near a road or street. Try to schedule jobs so you are not working in heavily traveled areas during morning and evening rush hours and at dusk or in darkness. Take steps to protect yourself, coworkers and equipment from traffic. http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2709.pdf

Traffic control This single cone is not enough traffic control. Barricades should be erected to detour the passage vehicles from hazardous areas. If there are questions about which signs should be used, refer to the State Traffic Control Manual for guidance. A temporary traffic control zone is an area where road user conditions are changed because of a work zone or an incident. Although each zone is different, the goal of your work should be to perform your work safely and with as little disruption to road users as possible. To be effective, traffic control devices should meet five basic requirements: Fulfill a need, Command attention, Display a clear, simple meaning, Command respect from road users, Give adequate time for proper response. http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2709.pdf

Traffic Control Flag persons should be properly dressed Bright orange, yellow, or yellow green vest (reflective at night) Hard hat Flag (18” X 18”) or STOP / SLOW sign Always stand on the berm next to the traffic you are controlling or in the barricaded lane. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES stand in the lane being used by traffic. Notify local police before starting a job that might interfere with traffic flow. All equipment, vehicles and materials should be stored away from traffic to avoid collision. Wear highly reflective, brightly-colored vests and clothing to make yourself visible to traffic. Use highly-visible signs, cones and barricades to warn and direct traffic and protect you and your coworkers while working. All warning signs, cones and barricades should be easy-to read and clean to maintain maximum visibility. Remove or cover warning signs when the job is finished or you are not working. When you must leave vehicles unattended, remember to roll up all windows, remove the keys and lock all the doors. http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/ageng2/MF2709.pdf

Most Importantly, working near traffic requires approved high-visibility clothing. Wearing bright reflective clothing will help drivers see you better and may potentially save your life.

Additional Information http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_Hurricane_Facts/work_xone_traffic_safety.pdf http://www.osha.gov/OshDoc/data_Hurricane_Facts/work_zone_safety.pdf