Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/85671
safety watch | by Amy Materson Compaction cautions Never bypass a machine's safety features The accident: Using a borrowed compactor, an oper- ator was compact- ing soil for a new road. The machine had a faulty starter system – when used on rough terrain, the engine would die, requir- ing a manual jump start. When the machine died yet again, the operator tried to jump start the engine with a hand tool; however, the machine was in high gear and the propulsion lever was full forward. The machine moved forward when the operator leaned over the tire, pulling him between the tire and fender assem- bly, crushing and killing him. The bottom line: A post-accident investigation determined the machine had diffi culty starting all day. To restart the machine, the operator had to stand on the rim of the left wheel assembly, reach across the tire and use a 7/16-3/8-inch offset open end wrench to jump across the starter solenoid terminals. Both the guard over the side of the engine where the solenoid was located and the operator's manual were missing. The general contractor stated he did not know the machine was malfunctioning. Easy avoidance A number of mistakes were made that led to this worker's death. When using compaction equipment, remember the following: Information for this Safety Watch is from an accident report and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's NIOSH Fatality Illustration by Don Lomax Don't use defective equipment. Inspect your equipment prior to use. If you fi nd a malfunction, let your supervisor know so the machine can be placed out of service until repairs can be made. Respect the machine's safety features. During your inspection, ensure safety features are operation- al, and comply with all warning labels. Never bypass equipment safety features to start or run a machine. Know ahead of time what procedures are in place in the event of equipment malfunction. Follow proper procedures, especially during a malfunction. Although the compactor's manufacturer didn't recommend jump starting the machine in every instance, the operator's manual – which was missing in this instance – outlined an acceptable procedure. Had the manual been in the machine, the operator would have had access to the correct information, which directed setting the propulsion lever and park- ing brake to prevent movement upon ignition. Assessment and Control Evaluation Program. It is meant for general information only. Sponsored by Tear this out and share with your crew EW0312 Tear along perforated edges