Avoid hazardous situations and promote operator safety by following these OSHA guidelines for machine operation.
Base equipment safety features
- The following items must be in proper operating condition:
- A service brake system, an emergency brake system, and a parking brake system
- Working headlights, tail lights, and brake lights
- An audible warning device (horn)
- Intact windshield with working windshield wipers
- Equipment must have rollover protection and protection from falling debris
- Vehicles loaded from the top must have cab shields or canopies to ensure operator safety while loading.
- Vehicle used to transport workers should have seats that are firmly secured and feature operable seatbelts for the adequate number of workers to be transported.
- The equipment capacity or safety features cannot be modified without the manufacturer’s written approval.
Training
- Operators must be trained to operate the equipment they use
- Vehicles must be evaluated at the start of each shift to ensure parts, equipment, and accessories are safe for operation. Any defective parts or equipment must be repaired or replaced before use.
- If vehicle has an obstructed rear review, it can only be operated in reverse when it features a reverse signal alarm capable of sounding louder than ambient noise or if a signal observer indicates it is safe to move.
Site Hazards
- Verify that all roadways and grades are constructed and maintained to safely accommodate equipment and vehicles involved.
- Avoid debris collection work or other operations involving heavy equipment under overhead lines.