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Backhoe and Excavator Machine Safety
A National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) review of the
Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries data
identified 346 deaths associated with excavators or backhoe loaders during
1992–2000. A review of this data, and of the NIOSH Fatality Assessment and
Control Evaluation Program cases, suggests two common causes of injury or
death:
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Being struck by the moving machine, swinging booms or other machine PCComponents;
or
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Being struck by quick-disconnect excavator buckets that unexpectedly detach
from the excavator stick.
These recommendations from NIOSH may help prevent worker injuries associated
with the operation of backhoes and excavator equipment.
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Locate overhead and underground utility lines before beginning work. Avoid
working near overhead power lines. If you must work near them, develop a plan
to avoid contact.
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Operate hydraulic excavators or backhoes only on grades specified by the
manufacturer.
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Position machinery at a safe distance from excavations, such as trenches.
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Train equipment operators in the proper use of the equipment they are assigned
to operate.
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Identify and label all machine controls and make sure that the manufacturers’
safety features are working.
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Securely latch attachments, such as quick-disconnect buckets, before work
begins.
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Conduct visual and operational checks on all machine systems and operating
controls before use.
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Make frequent visual inspections of quick-disconnect systems, especially after
changing attachments.
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Use the rollover protection system and seat belts supplied by the manufacturer.
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Do not exceed load capacities when lifting materials.
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Lower the boom to a safe position with the bucket on the ground, and turn off
the machine before stepping off for any reason.
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Make all workers on the site aware of the machine’s established swing areas and
blind spots before the operator works the machine.
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Keep workers on foot outside swing areas by marking them with rope, tape or
other barriers.
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Before each work shift begins, review and confirm communication signals between
machine operators and workers on foot.
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Keep workers outside the hydraulic excavator swing areas and clear of
attachments when using the machines for hoisting materials.
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Do not allow workers to stand under suspended loads or suspended machine
PCComponents such as the boom, arm or bucket.
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Do not permit workers on foot to approach the hydraulic excavator or backhoe
loader until they signal the operator to shut down the machine and receive
acknowledgment from the operator.
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Use spotters or signal persons around operating equipment when necessary.
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Never permit workers to ride in or work from excavator or backhoe loader
buckets.
COPYRIGHT ©2004, ISO Services Properties, Inc.
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