Material Handler Tips for Newer Operators

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZE_TP5sigE

Operating any heavy construction machine is risky business.  Following safety procedures reduces risk but it is still dangerous.

When it comes to operating material handlers, there are a number of important safety steps that need to be taken to help reduce the chance someone will get hurt.

Even before you step into a machine and turn it on, the operator needs to conduct pre-operational inspections of the machine.  Once that is done, the operator needs to check the surrounding area.  What an operator will be looking for is potential hazards, including overhead power lines, structures, hidden obstacles, and anything else that could slow work down and make the job dangerous.  You never know what or who could be in your operating zone.

Before operation, make sure the machine is set up right.  This will include the condition of the ground the machine is on.  The ground needs to be level and stable.  Check the distance from the load to the unload zone and the amount of swing needed to complete the job.

The swing distance is very important for safety and operational reasons.  The best machine setup gives the operator a good line of sight when swinging to the right or left.  The operator's sight shouldn't be restricted by the boom.

Swing distance will also have an effect on time to load and unload material.  Setting up at an angle will help in loading more material and with less time.   A 180 degree turn or more just isn't efficient.  A 90 degrees is much better.

Master the machine.  Knowing how to use all the controls and features is your job.  You should have the operation manual memorized.  If you don't know how to run the machine, be sure to get practice with all the maneuvers.  When lifting, lift straight up and down.  Many operators lift while the boom is moving, causing undo wear and tear on the lines and hoses.

The operator also must know all the hand signals.  If you don't know what the signals are, definitely do not guess.  Work safely, or not at all.