Backhoe Safety on Electrical Jobs

Basic Backhoe Safety

Last week in my blog, I spoke about Excavation and Trenching, so this week I thought I would follow up on last week’s blog by going over some Basic Backhoe Safety precautions, being that backhoe’s are one of the most common pieces of equipment used for excavation.

Backhoe’s come in a wide array of styles and sizes, the main type I will be going over is the standard wheeled tractor type, with a front-end loader (bucket) and a hoe attachment with outriggers. This type of backhoe is relatively small, powerful, and quick; a backhoe’s multipurpose flexibility makes it one of the best choices for our industry, but like any piece of heavy equipment, it is very important to follow basic safety procedures when operating, or working around a backhoe. The following are just a few of the main Basic Backhoe Safety tips.

• The operator should be trained and be familiar with the backhoe he will be using.
• Although we rent our backhoe’s, and they should be delivered to the job site after a complete inspection, the operator should also inspect the backhoe for proper operation and mechanical problems at the start of each day.
• Never start or operate the backhoe except from the operators seat, and always wear the seat belt.
• Never dig while employee’s are working under or around the backhoe.
• Never use the front loader (bucket) as a man lift.
• When using the hoe attachment, always use the outriggers.
• When traveling with a load, keep the load centered and close to the ground.

Remember, most injuries involving a backhoe do not occur to the operator, but to the ground personnel working in the vicinity of the backhoe, so always be aware of the location of all personnel working near your backhoe. It is our company policy that all personnel working near or around a backhoe, or even a trencher, must wear a hard hat and Hi-Vis safety vest. Backhoes are an excellent labor saving piece of equipment! However, careless operation may result in costing life or limb.

Leonard Kessner
Safety Director

Related posts:

1. Extension Cord Safety
2. Basic Hand Tool Safety
3. Home Electrical Safety
4. Taking Shortcuts
5. Safety Doesn’t End with the End of Your Work Day