12 Apr 5 Ways to Stay Safe When Working with Heavy Machinery

5 Ways to Stay Safe When Working with Heavy Machinery

There are many risks when operating heavy machinery. It’s critical to understand what these risks are so that you can prevent property damage and accidents. Whether you are taking on new help or simply need to ensure that your business is operating safely and efficiently and is up to speed as possible, you will need to take some safety precautions and follow several safety tips.

Following are 5 ways to stay safe when working with heavy machinery:

1. Training

Even if you know what kind of heavy machinery you are about to use and how it works, it’s possible that you may not have sufficient experience with the specific model that you will be using. Therefore, training is extremely important and spending some hours under the watchful eye of an experienced worker can get you up to speed on everything from subtle differences to major features that you might not understand if they weren’t highlighted.

2. Knowing your worksite

One of the most common examples of heavy equipment hazard is electrocution. Most kinds of heavy machinery can make contact with live wires, so it’s important that you take some time to learn about the safety hazards it might present. Also make sure that everybody at the worksite takes their time to run through the different areas and point out any safety concerns before operating any kind of heavy machinery.

3. Don’t get overconfident

Getting overconfident while working with heavy machinery can have severe outcomes and sometimes it can cause serious damage, injury, or death. Being careless when using heavy machinery not only puts your own life at risk, it also poses extreme threat to the lives of other people around you. Therefore, it is recommended that you always have a clear mind when operating machinery. When used responsibly and properly, everyone in the work environment will be safer.

4. Inspect your machinery regularly

It’s important that you inspect your machinery on a regular basis in order make sure it’s in good working condition. When you do this, the machinery will keep running longer and you will also be able to detect issues before they become a serious problem. It is recommended to inspect the machinery every day before use. Examine closely, look for damage or cracks on the machinery’s frame, check for oil leakage, etc. Don’t use the machinery if you have any doubts regarding it’s working condition.

5. Have machinery regularly serviced

It is recommended to have your machinery serviced at least twice a year. Things such as fluids and oil should be monitored frequently. Furthermore, the engine should also be inspected and checked for any unusual sounds, emissions or leaks. Regular inspection and service is very important when it comes to heavy machinery. It not only helps keep the machinery in a functioning state for longer, it also ensures that you avoid expensive replacements or repairs.

H-West Equipment, Inc is a provider of recycling equipment, based in Orange, CA.  We sell and service every piece of equipment necessary, from Balers to Compactors, to Shredders, Conveyors, and much more throughout California, Arizona, Nevada and Northern Mexico. We also provide parts and expert service throughout the same coverage area. For consultation, or to schedule service, reach us through our contact form or call us at our corporate office in Orange CA at (714) 289-7733 today!