Conduct daily walkaround inspections

It is essential that operators perform daily walkaround inspections for any equipment that is used on a jobsite. A careful inspection will allow small issues to be addressed before they become larger, more expensive and potentially dangerous problems. If any issues are noticed, operators should report them immediately and should not use the machine.

Examinations should include:

• Looking for any fluids on the ground around a parked machine
• Fluid and battery levels
• Tire condition and inflation level
• Horns and lights
• Safety gear, including seat belt and backup alarms

Look and Listen for Equipment Irregularities

It's important for operators to be alert for potential equipment malfunctions on the jobsite. Things to look for include intermittent electrical failures, inappropriate noises, cracks or other signs of impending breakage, and any damage to a machine.

Know what situations increase the risk of tipping or overturning

Fast swings of a load put machines at risk. Be sure operators are moving loads carefully and adhering to prudent speed limits. Never exceed the working range or lifting capacity of a piece of equipment and keep the machine as level as possible when operating.

Tips and Best Practices

General safety instructions

• Always conduct a complete safety check and daily walkaround to identify potential hazards.
• Only trained and experienced drivers should operate rollers and other road construction equipment.
• Find out where fire extinguishers, first aid supplies and alarm telephones are located before beginning work.
• Drive slowly in sharp bends and avoid driving across slopes. Always drive straight up or straight down the slope.
• No crew members should ever position themselves between the paver and a hauling truck backing into the hopper.
• Ensure there are no obstacles or obstructions in the direction of travel of paving and compaction equipment, either on the ground or overhead.
• Always use the machine's ROPS (roll over protective structure) when operating on uneven or unsafe ground.
• Use steps and handholds to climb safely into trucks and equipment.
• Inform the operator before climbing into a truck bed.
• Do not climb onto truck running boards, unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Do not distract equipment operators with excessive talking.
• Keep other vehicles that aren't in use parked out of the way of traffic.
• Use hearing protection if the noise level exceeds 80 dB(A).
• Avoid operating rollers near edges and ditches, as the ground conditions and bearing strength may not support the roller.
• Always drink plenty of water when working on a road or paving job during the summer, as heat exhaustion can set in suddenly.

What to wear

• Always wear long sleeve shirts and full length pants to protect arms and legs. Clothing should not be loose fitting, however, as loose clothing can get caught in moving parts.
• Ensure your crew uses safety vests and colored jackets so they are easily visible while working on the road.
• Hard hats should be worn at all times in order to prevent falling or flying objects that could result in serious or life threatening head injuries.
• ANSI approved safety glasses should be worn at all times to avoid eye injuries. Approved glasses are marked on the frame, lens or both.
• Wear steel toe work boots that extend above the ankle and have non-skid holes.
• Use gloves to protect hands while climbing in and out of equipment.