Six Safety Tips When Working with Heavy Machinery

Working with heavy machinery is a serious job that requires skills, caution, and concentration. In order to avoid injury to the machine operator and other workers, it is important that you remember to take certain safety precautions seriously when you are working around heavy machinery.

Train First

If you are going to operate any piece of heavy machinery, always receive proper training by a professional before you attempt to operate the machine on your own. You should be trained on the machine's basic operational features as well as all safety protocols that are in place. If you don't feel ready or comfortable to operate the equipment on your own, you will need more training.

Wear Protective Gear

You must wear all of the protective gear required when you operate heavy machinery. Make sure the protective gear is on correctly and fits properly before you even turn the machine on just in case the machine malfunctions in any way. Protective gear might include wearing a hardhat, safety glasses, or even special clothing.

Inspect the Equipment

Always inspect the machinery and all of its parts before attempting to start the machine. You can conduct a visual check of all parts including the hydraulic control valves. Any parts that are missing or seem to be broken should be replaced immediately by calling a parts company like Flodyne Incorporated. Don't attempt to run a machine that is missing parts or malfunctioning, this can be very dangerous.

Be Aware of Surroundings

Before you operate any heavy machinery, conduct a visual sweep of the entire work space, so you can be aware of your surroundings while you work. You must be concerned about your own safety as well as the safety of those around you as you work. Be sure to check for any objects that might cause problems or damage or get in the way of the machine.

Follow Safety Procedures

As you use the machinery, always follow the safety procedures that are put into place. Never rush to get a job finished quickly or try to take short cuts when it comes to safety. If you choose to break the safety rules, you put yourself and others at risk of being hurt. You might also lose your job. Not following proper safety procedures not only puts you and your co-workers at risk, but it is a big insurance risk for the company you work for.

Know Emergency Procedures

In the event that something does go wrong while you are operating heavy machinery, know the emergency procedures. Make sure you know how to perform an emergency shutdown of the equipment, how to call for help, and where the first aid box is located, so you can address a problem quickly.

Safety should be a top concern for anyone operating heavy machinery. You own safety and the safety of everyone at your company depends on following proper safety protocols. These six tips can help save lives or limbs when properly followed each and every time.