Heavy Construction Equipment Safety

Working with heavy construction equipment is dangerous. OSHA, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, says that crushed fingers, lacerations and amputations are some of the serious injuries caused by heavy machinery and equipment.

Identification

• Equipment can backfire, malfunction and cause injuries or fatalities if it is defective. As such, OSHA says that construction workers must inspect heavy construction equipment regularly to look for cracks, frays, holes or evidence of wear and tear. Equipment also must be tested to ensure it functions properly. Any defects that are found must be repaired before the equipment can be used.

Location

• If workers are not operating heavy equipment, then they must relocate to a safer spot that is not proximal to the equipment or materials being handled. Workers who stand beneath or next to heavy construction equipment risk being injured from falling or flying objects.

Prevention/Solution

• Personal protective equipment keeps workers safe. Hardhats must be worn at all times when working in construction zones. Safety glasses and face shields need to be worn when workers are operating equipment that causes particles or objects to fly.