Richard AgamaHeavy equipment makes construction projects possible and efficient. However, construction sites are also known for being dangerous, with the misuse of equipment as a common cause of injuries on a site. Here are some tips for operating heavy construction equipment that you should keep in mind.
Have Some Training Under Your Belt
Before you can safely operate a piece of heavy construction equipment, it’s important that you have some kind of training experience. By having the proper training, you will have more knowledge of the equipment, its purpose, and the different controls.
Check Equipment Before Use
Prior to using any heavy construction equipment such as a feller buncher, you need to inspect its parts. Checking the fluids levels and exterior parts of construction equipment ensures that the equipment will work properly when you begin to operate. Not doing any inspection can result in a breakdown that can be costly to a construction project.
Watch Your Surroundings
As you operate construction equipment, you also need to be extremely mindful of your surroundings. For instance, one of the many benefits of using mini excavators is that they are small, which makes them easy to maneuver, but you don’t always have that luxury. Think about your surroundings when you are using equipment around a construction site and use extra caution.
Don’t Use It Beyond Its Limits
Another tip for operating heavy construction equipment is to remember its designed purpose. Every piece of construction equipment has specific uses and not sticking within those parameters can result in a breakdown. This also means not overworking equipment and giving it a rest, especially during the summer to avoid the risk of overheating.
Wear Necessary Safety Equipment
Whether you are involved in industrial or entertainment construction, the final thing to know when you are using heavy equipment is to wear any necessary safety gear. You need to keep your health in your best interest and, if that means wearing a helmet, goggles, or any other form of safety gear—do it.
Handling construction equipment properly is something workers need to take seriously when they are on the job. Getting the proper training, having knowledge of the equipment being used, watching the area around you, and wearing the necessary safety gear are all effective ways of operating the machines correctly.
