Construction sites can be dangerous places, particularly when there are large pieces of earthmoving equipment on site. With their huge frames, giant wheels and immense power, these can do a lot of damage if they are not used properly. Of course, their power is also their great strength, and they can make construction jobs that involve clearing lots of earth a whole lot easier. But what can you do each day to ensure optimal levels of safety when it comes to using these giant pieces of machinery?

Getting on and off the machinery. You might think the hazards of using large pieces of construction machinery are all associated with the machine actually running, but mounting and dismounting these pieces of equipment can be really difficult as well. It's a good idea to implement a 'three-point rule' on-site, which means that there should always be three points of contact (such as two hands and a foot) with the machine when mounting or dismounting in order to do so in a safe way.

Unloading equipment. It's also smart to be cautious of your surroundings when you are loading or unloading something from an earthmoving equipment hire. Let's say, for example, that the machine is sitting on ground that isn't level. When unloading something, there is a chance that the equipment could slide off, which could potentially lead to serious injury. For this reason, it's also a good idea to evacuate people from the perimeter of the machine before beginning to load or unload anything.

Blind spots. There's always a lot happening on construction sites, and this means that some spots can be obscured from a line of vision. This poses an obvious safety threat on a construction site, and anybody controlling one of these machines needs to be absolutely sure that there is nobody behind them or in a blind spot before they move the machine. If necessary, the machine operator will need to exit the vehicle to ensure this. Ideally, there should be a spotter who can direct the machine operator safely into all potentially precarious nooks and crannies of the building site. High visibility vests should also be worn at all times.

And, of course, anybody operating a heavy construction machine should be fully trained and hold the appropriate license to do the job. Follow these pieces of advice, and you should have a safe and productive construction site.

For more information, contact the earthmoving equipment hire company you are working with.

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