Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/1534835
CASE Construction Equipment recently an- nounced new models and upgrades to empow- er construction and utility crews facing labor shortages and constrained jobsites in an effort to allow teams to accomplish more with less amidst growing demands from booming infra- structure investments. 30 How Heavy Equipment Cab Redesigns Improve Safety, Uptime A continued labor shortage in the construction industry means it is a priority for companies to use every means possible to attract and retain skilled operators — including providing a comfortable workspace in the cab. Patrick Baker, excavator product manager for Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas, pointed out that the cab is essentially an equip- ment operator's office on the job- site. Not only does adding comfort and safety to work that is carried out in the elements provide a positive working environment for operators, but it also increases productivity and profitability for the contractor. Cab Comfort Key to Work Performance is IRONMARKETS story and this one detail the value of cab comfort features in terms of boost- ed productivity, increased safety, enhanced visibility, greater ability to control movements, and acquire information more concisely. at enhanced cab comfort, which has significant potential to lead to greater productivity in the long run, also can be a driving factor in employee retention. Any features that are designed to reduce fatigue allow equipment operators to stay alert and focused for longer periods of time. Joysticks, for example, help min- imize fatigue. Electric-hydraulic joystick controls provide low-ef- fort control and reduce the num- ber of hydraulic lines in the cab. Larger cab sizes and ergonomic controls can help reduce equip- ment operator fatigue. Lumbar support also can reduce operator fatigue. Pressurized cabs keep the operator's environment clean from elements such as water, dust, and pollutants. Cab Comfort Protects Operators' Health e U.S. Centers for Disease Con- trol published this study that in- dicates construction workers who operate heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, cranes, and backhoes frequently generate large quantities of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust. Exposure to even small amounts of RCS over time can cause silico- sis, lung cancer, chronic obstruc- tive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other serious diseases. e article notes a recent study published in the American Jour- nal of Industrial Medicine found that 79% of the 100,000 work- ers exposed to RCS above the recommended exposure limit (REL) worked in the construction industry. Enclosed cabs that are not well designed or functioning properly can expose the operator to harm- ful concentrations of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust. e National Institute for Occupa- tional Safety and Health research found that filter efficiency and the use of a recirculation filter were the most important performance factors for enclosed cabs. An effective filtration system should remove at least 95% of respirable aerosols such as dust, diesel partic- ulate, and droplets. Sound insulation can significant- ly reduce the noise levels that are inherently part of construction activity and provide a quieter working environment for the op- erator to concentrate on the task at hand. Heated, fully adjustable air-ride seats provide comfort as needed. Adjustable armrest-mounted controls, steering wheels, and pedals are designed to comfort- ably accommodate operators of all sizes. Ride control that prevents unnecessary pitching and ensures smooth travel for the operator also leads to increased productivity. Cab Features Key to Safe- ty Cabs with panoramic visibility also help create a safe and com- fortable working environment. e position and design of the Story continued on page 32 IDA Universal April - May 2025 The addition of comfort and safety features to work carried out in the elements not only provides a positive environment for operators, but also increases contractor productivity and profitability. NUTS AND BOLTS NEWS