Weekly Safety Share #75 - Equipment Safety
As we prepare for another winter road construction season, crews across our worksites are busy inspecting equipment, preparing materials, and finalizing routes. With shorter daylight hours, icy portages, and increased equipment movement, communication and situational awareness become more important than ever.
Whether you are an operator, a ground worker, or a traveler moving between sites—constant communication is essential to ensure every job is completed safely.
Stay Connected: VHF Radio Requirements
All equipment operating on winter roads must be equipped with VHF radios. These radios are the backbone of our communication system, allowing operators and workers to coordinate movements and avoid collisions on narrow or limited-visibility routes.
When traveling to and from work sites:
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Always call out on your VHF when approaching or crossing portages.
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State your direction of travel clearly.
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Wait for confirmations and listen for others calling out.
This simple step makes everyone aware of potential traffic, helping travelers and crews safely navigate tight areas and avoid unexpected encounters.
Know Your Surroundings
Winter construction zones are complex environments with numerous blind spots. Always:
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Obey posted signage and speed limits.
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Stay tuned to your VHF radio at all times.
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Maintain safe distances from working equipment.
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Never approach machinery until the operator has confirmed both verbal and visual contact with you.
If you cannot see the operator—the operator cannot see you.
Safe Practices for Working Around Light & Heavy Equipment
To ensure the safety of all personnel, the following considerations must guide every operation at the job site:
Before Operating Equipment
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Inspect all machinery prior to use.
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Confirm that lights, alarms, cameras, and audible warning signals are functioning properly.
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Establish a clear route from staging areas to the work zone.
On the Worksite
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Set equipment up with adequate space for both operation and worker movement.
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Use the three-point contact technique when mounting or dismounting—never jump off equipment.
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Establish a clearly marked danger zone where only authorized personnel may enter.
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Pre-define hand signals or use two-way radios for all movement communication.
During Equipment Operation
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Maintain a clear line of sight between operators and workers.
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Use a spotter whenever heavy machinery is in motion.
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Walk on the driver’s side whenever possible—blind spots are larger on the passenger side.
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Keep a safe distance from all sides of active equipment.
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Be aware of swing radii; cordon off areas with barriers or caution tape when necessary.
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Wear high-visibility clothing and appropriate PPE at all times.
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Never work beneath suspended or overhead loads.
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Stay alert—conditions can change quickly in winter environments.
Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility
Planning ahead, communicating clearly, and staying aware of your surroundings are the best ways to prevent accidents. When everyone commits to these safety practices, we ensure a safer and more productive winter construction season for all.