5 Ways to Lower Your Risk of Injury Around Construction Equipment

Does your job require you to work around heavy equipment? If so, you should follow some basic safety tips to reduce the risk of injury. Each year, thousands of construction workers are seriously inured due to heavy equipment. The good news is that most of these injuries are avoidable. For some helpful tips on how to lower your risk of injury around heavy equipment, consider the following five tips.

#1) Wear PPE

While this rule applies to all jobs and workplaces, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is particularly important when working around heavy equipment. A hard had and impact-resistant eyewear are essential forms of PPE for construction workers. Depending on your specific, other PPE may also be required.

#2) Stay in LOS

Stay within the operator's line of sight (LOS) when working around heavy equipment. If another worker is operating a bulldozer, for example, be conscious of whether he or she can see you. If you are in the worker's blind spot, he or she may unknowingly veer into your path.

#3) Training and Certification

Of course, operators of heavy equipment should have the appropriate training and certification. Different machines and equipment require different training and certification. Nonetheless, employers should comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA's) rules regarding their specific equipment. Allowing an qualified worker to operate a piece of heavy equipment creates a dangerous environment that increases the risk of injury.

#4) Wear High-Vis Clothing

It's important for workers to wear high-visibility clothing when working around heavy equipment. If an operator of heavy equipment can't see you, he or she may veer into your path. High-visibility clothing like a reflective vest and hard hat, however, can improve your visibility and lower your risk of injury.

#5) Communicate

Finally, keep the lines of communication open when working around heavy equipment. If the worksite is too loud to communicate by talking, consider using a two-way radio. Workers need to be communicate so that they can warn each other of potential risks. t

Every construction worker should take measures to protect themselves from injury. Getting injured on the job isn't just a nuissance; it can affect a worker's professional and personal life. So, if you work in the construction industry, follow these tips to lower your risk of injury around heavy machinery.