Our top tips for safely loading and unloading equipment
Did you know the construction industry accounts for 16% of work fatalities and 11% of serious workplace injury claims across Australia – making our industry number one on the list?
Vehicle incidents are a major cause of injuries and deaths, and therefore it’s critical that loading and unloading machinery is done safely and correctly every time.
Safety – the top priority when loading equipment!
Getting your equipment to and from site safely and efficiently takes care and an acute awareness of the potential hazards.
By far the most important consideration is safety, however, you also need to take into account moving the equipment without damage, and transporting it in the most productive and efficient manner.
Make sure you don’t sacrifice safety for speed, and that you take the time to do it right on site!
Loading machines, barriers or other heavy equipment should always be done in accordance with the Safe Work Method Statement for the equipment, local safety regulations and the safety guidelines of your employer or those of the site you are on.
Every piece of equipment will have its own SWMS with specific details and requirements, however here are some general things to be aware of when loading equipment, moving machines, barriers and other types of heavy loads on site.
1. Induction & PPE
- Make sure you’re wearing high visibility clothing, steel cap boots and other PPE appropriate to the task. This typically includes gloves and safety glasses as well as a hard hat.
- Be aware of the site’s emergency procedures and ensure everyone involved is site inducted.
2. Proper prep prevents poor performance
- Make sure any lifting gear, shackles or slings have been tested and tagged and are fit for use. Check the load ratings and make sure they’re appropriate for the equipment you are transporting.
- Have emergency equipment in place if something goes wrong, including a first aid kit and fire extinguisher.
- Make sure your driver is correctly licensed and aware of the site rules.
3. Loading equipment: load it up
- Review the SWMS prior to attempting to transport any equipment.
- Be aware of pinch points and the potential for crushing injuries when loading equipment onto trucks or trailers.
- Use only approved, labelled or specifically engineered lifting points to attach the lifting gear. Inspect the lifting points before every use.
- Ensure the crane operator and dogman are trained, inducted and undertake any lifting in accordance with the site instructions and SWMS.
4. Be aware of your surroundings
- Note whether any overhead wires are present and conduct a risk assessment if you’re unsure of any clearances.
- Adjust for the weather: high winds or wet slippery conditions can mean you need to change your approach, or sometimes reschedule the job entirely.
- Don’t leave a load suspended and avoid having a crane travel with a load where possible.
- Keep clear of moving equipment, especially anything with booms, swinging arms or parts that could potentially move unexpectedly.
5. Land it safely
- Make sure a site inspection has been successfully carried out prior to accessing the area.
- Have a spotter assist when entering or leaving the site.
- Ensure the area is free of trip or slip hazards. For any manual handling tasks such as picking up lifting gear, use good posture to avoid injury.
- If you are not directly involved in the unloading, move to a safe location clear of any moving plant.
It’s essential that both loading and unloading equipment does not pose any safety risks to the driver, the workers on-site, or members of the public.
If you’re ever unsure – don’t risk it! Stop, report any safety concerns to your supervisor or the site manager, and conduct a risk assessment before continuing, or seek advice from your safety representative.
Trust the team that puts safety first when loading equipment
Our team are friendly, knowledgeable and go the extra mile for our customers, so if you need advice on how to make your workplace safer when it comes to hiring earthmoving equipment, give Orange Hire a call.
Plus, we hire loading ramps to help you unload safely and can provide everything you need to ensure your delivery goes off without incident.
