Those workers who operate heavy equipment must do so in all kinds of weather. During the summer, they may have to contend with extreme heat in cabs without air-conditioning. And in winter, ice and snow can make getting in and out of equipment hazardous and lead to slips and falls. And when grips and controls are too cold, they may contribute to arthritic conditions in the hand.

To avoid these problems, employers should be sure that all heavy equipment cabs are equipped with adequate air-conditioning in summer and heat in winter. In winter, operators should allow extra time to clean ice and snow from equipment. And when you’re mounting and dismounting the equipment, take it slowly and be carefully. Always face the vehicle and maintain 3-point contact to avoid slips and falls.

Heavy equipment operators are also exposed to high levels of noise daily, and there is plenty of research to demonstrate that excessive exposure to noise in the workplace may create hearing loss. While noise exposures on construction sites are not regulated in every province, industrial regulations, such as those in Ontario, stipulate a maximum of 90 decibels (dBA) exposure for eight hours. A recent study by CSAO reported that many operators in equipment without cabs or with open doors may be exposed to levels exceeding the maximum. Bulldozer operators, for example, were exposed to 102.4 dBA.

To alleviate the possible problems caused by excessive noise, make sure, whenever possible, cabs are enclosed and temperature controlled to encourage operators to keep the doors closed. Also, maintain the equipment periodically, because well-tuned equipment makes less noise. And implement hearing protection programs, especially in heavy equipment without cabs, that includes training in the proper use of plugs and muffs.

Another hazard to heavy equipment operation comes from exposure to diesel exhaust. According to some studies, such exposure can lead to serious lung problems, up to and including lung cancer, in part because of the soot particles and benzene that makes up the exhaust.

To mitigate the possible negative effects of breathing diesel exhaust, always be sure the equipment is in good working condition and properly maintained, paying special attention to the exhaust pipe and check for any leaks in the system.

Heavy equipment operators are exposed to psychological stress and fatigue as a result of the physical conditions described above, as well as the sheer size and power of the equipment, constantly changing site conditions, and the repetitive nature of hand and foot control operation. Operators often tend to work 4 or 5 hour stretches in virtual isolation, responding only to signals from co-workers. During the peak construction season, it’s not uncommon for operators to work 10 or 12 hour shifts, so fatigue can significantly affect their overall psychological well-being.

Employers and supervisors should always be aware of the physical and psychological stress equipment operators must often work under, and incorporate it into their training, and their daily work routines. They should also be trained to do a pre-work warm-up and take frequent enough stretch breaks to reduce the effects of prolonged sitting and vibration. Exercise programs and active forms of recreation to keep fit can improve mental attitude and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injury.

Heavy equipment operation is a difficult and stressful occupation, and employers and supervisors should adopt strategies to reduce common health problems. Any workplace health and safety strategy should include in-depth evaluations of vehicle design and work practices to identify safer, healthier approaches to the work at hand. Training should include methods for preventing musculoskeletal injury, and developing methods for reducing the stress of the job.

Everyone would agree that basic operation of heavy equipment should only be done by highly skilled operators who have a demonstrated ability to operate the equipment safely, not just for themselves, but for everyone they work with. Other workers should also be well trained in how to work around the heavy equipment operators, and how to stay clear. And everyone would agree that unsafe activities on and around the equipment can result in serious injury or death.

But what are some basic rules to follow? Often, training revolves around micromanaging specific situations, and we often forget the basic rules to follow when working on or around heavy equipment.

Just as even the greatest hitters in the game take batting practice before every game, sometimes, it’s essential to simply consider the most basic rules of the game.

1. As with any activity involving potentially dangerous equipment, good communication is an absolute necessity. Operators and ground-based workers should know where everyone is at all times. Everyone should wear highly visible vests, and all equipment should have a back up alarm system that can be easily heard by all workers in the area. And everyone, especially supervisors, should have access to communications equipment, such as two-way radios and/or cell phones.

2. All equipment should meet all government safety regulations with regard to rollover. That means the equipment should be designed to protect the operator should it tip over, and operators should be properly trained with regard to working on slopes or near open excavations.

3. All personnel working on or around such equipment shall at all times be wearing proper safety equipment, including hardhats, goggles, and hearing protection should noise conditions warrant.

4. Never jump on or off the equipment; operators should always use the three-point contact rule, meaning both feet and one hand or one foot and both hands, in contact with the ladder at all times.

5. Complete equipment service and maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, or even more frequently, for even greater safety. Periodic safety inspections should be done regularly by qualified personnel, especially with regard to steering and brake systems, and all operators should inspect the equipment before every shift, and promptly report any irregularities in operation.

Because injury accidents involving heavy equipment have a higher probability of causing a fatality, it is critical to keep in mind all aspects of your company’s safety rules and procedures whether you work on or near such heavy equipment.

A life – including yours — could depend on it.