How to Improve Safety Around Heavy Machinery

Construction sites are busy and often risky, especially around heavy equipment where mistakes or ignored safety measures can cause accidents and slow projects. Falling materials, operator blind spots, and failure to secure equipment during maintenance can all create hazardous situations. However, there are numerous steps workers can take to ensure their safety as well as the safety of those around them. According to For Construction Pros, workers operating heavy equipment should understand their own limits, clearly communicate with people around them, and properly inspect equipment, among other measures to limit potential dangers.

Before operating a piece of equipment, confirm it’s in good condition. Walk around the machine and look for obvious signs of wear-and-tear or oil and hydraulic leaks. Inspect machinery at the end of the day, too. When run over an extended period, equipment can overheat and catch fire. Part of maintaining equipment is knowing when to shut it down before it reaches its limit. Of course, machines naturally break down over time, so it’s essential to budget for equipment replacements. Read more