Moving Equipment

The best way to avoid danger from self-propelled units, such as cranes, dozers, and trucks, is to keep your eyes open and stay out of the way. The operator does his best to keep from running over anyone. But with all the commotion on the construction site, he might not see you. And don't depend on hearing a horn or alarm. A construction site, as you know, is not only busy, it's noisy.

Be especially careful when a vehicle is backing up. The operator should ask his foreman to direct him into the space. But sometimes he doesn't. So since he can't see you, you have to watch out for him. Never take a chance and dart behind a vehicle that's backing up, if you slip and fall, you've had it.

RIDING ON OR IN VEHICLES

Don't ride on any vehicles except those intended to transport you on or between jobs. This goes for the running board or drawbar of a unit, loaded trucks, or the bucket of a bucket loader. Riding on the top of a load is especially dangerous. You may fall off if the load shifts or be crushed when going under low clearances. When riding in transport vehicles, keep your arms and legs inside where they belong.

WALKING BESIDE VEHICLES

Don't walk alongside moving equipment. You can be killed or injured if the vehicle slides or turns, or if the load shifts, or if you slip. Don't walk under loads on cranes or hoists. Be especially careful not to touch the frame of a crane when there are power lines in the area. If the crane touches one of them, you'll be electrocuted. Remember, too, that electricity can jump several feet, depending on voltage and weather conditions. So, in addition to not touching the crane, stay well clear.

OTHER EQUIPMENT

Not only vehicles, but moving equipment of any kind is dangerous. If, for example, you're working on portable staging, scaffolding, or work platforms, stay off while it's being moved unless it is designated for you to be on it.

STAY ALERT

Stay ahead by not getting behind (or along- side of) moving equipment. The more you're alert, the less chance you'll have of getting hurt.