Construction sites can be dangerous places. Falls from working at height, slips and trips, exposure to loud noise or being struck or crushed by heavy machinery are just a few of the hazards and risks workers encounter on site. Site traffic patterns and terrain can vary, together with working alongside other contractors, can present added levels of complexity and risk when operating rented heavy machinery.

Maintaining on-site safety is essential. Which is why when it comes to earth moving equipment hire, here are a few some common sense tips to keep your workers safe on site.

Are you wearing the correct clothing?

Of course you should always wear a hard hat when required, but the rest of your attire is important as well. For a start, ensure that your clothing is quite tight rather than being loose fitting, as otherwise it could potentially get caught in the machinery.

You should also wear a sturdy pair of boots that are thick enough to protect your feet from falling objects, high enough that your ankles are also protected, and with good traction to prevent slips and falls. Long pants and gloves are also recommended, as these can prevent scratches or cuts, while safety glasses or a face shield should also be worn.

Can you mount and dismount correctly?

Getting in and out of your earth moving equipment hire may seem simple, but it's essential you do so correctly to avoid any injuries. Make sure you're facing the equipment and that you use the rails and steps provided. Make sure that all contact areas are kept clear, and that the steps and handrails are clean and secured properly.

The area should also be well lit so you can see what you're doing. When getting in and out, ensure you maintain three points of contact at all times, and that your hands are free of things such as tools.

Do you have your seat belt on?

While you may think it's unnecessary to wear your seat belt on a construction site, thanks to the low speeds and limited traffic, this should still be a priority. You may need to cross a road, which can be hazardous, and other working machines on the site can pose the danger of a potential collision.

However, the main purpose of your seat belt is to protect you should you rollover, which is actually more likely to happen than a collision. Your seat belt keeps you inside the cab's rollover protection structure, keeping you safe.

Can you recognise hazards?

You should always be on the lookout for any potential hazards, so keep alert when operating machinery. Are there any potential electrical hazards nearby, such as overhead lines? Can you notice any potential space issues, or particularly steep slopes you may struggle with? If you're not sure if something is a potential problem, don't be afraid to ask. Ultimately, you should get in the habit of checking for hazards constantly, so that it becomes second nature to you.

Overall, safety should be front of mind. If in doubt, don't do it.

Note: This article is for general advice only and must not be relied upon when renting specific machinery products used for a specific application.