Essential Safety Tips for Moving Heavy Machinery

Whether you are working on a construction project or are preparing machinery for a move, it’s essential to keep workers safe when working on or near heavy equipment. 

Here are four tips to help your team prevent accidents and stay focused. 

4 Safety Tips For Moving Heavy Machinery

Operator Training 

Workers should be trained on proper procedures to safely operate all equipment and machinery they will be working on. Hazard identification, safety features, and equipment maneuvering should all be covered with a hands-on and in-class training approach.

Refresher courses and retraining should be conducted as needed per company guidelines or if you notice employees operating in an unsafe manner.

Workers should be confident in how to mount and dismount equipment safely. A clear understanding of load capacity and lifting limits should be presented clearly.

Inspecting Before Use

A thorough visual inspection of the equipment in use before each use is essential for employees to conduct. 

Check tires and tracks for damage, check fluid levels, hoses, booms, and other components for any cracks or damages. Ensuring all attachments are securely locked into place.

Checking the engine oil, hydraulic fluid and oil before starting can minimize hydraulic issues.

When servicing or performing maintenance, follow the lock-out procedures – ensure the brakes are engaged and use chocks to block the wheels. 

Wear Your Seatbelt

Seatbelts save lives. The seatbelt will keep you secure if the equipment tips or rolls over. Rollover protection systems can be installed in equipment that can prevent you from getting banged up or flung out from the cab.

Keep The Area Clear 

Protect your staff and bystanders from equipment and working areas by implementing a barrier to keep people away from operating equipment. Here are some ways to keep the site safe:

• Have spotters and implement hand signals and a radio to communicate and clear blindspots.
• Increase lighting or visibility or night work.
• Develop an in-site plan to limit vehicles needing to back up.

Educate All Staff On Safety 

If you work in an industry that handles heavy equipment, take time to educate all employees on the dangers and hazards of the equipment.

Contact Us To Help With Your Heavy Machinery Needs

If you’re looking for the best relocation company across Canada, the United States, and overseas, Ready Machinery Movers is at your service.

Request a quote by calling our estimators at 1-800-211-2500 or by completing our online quote request form.