Weekly Safety Share #80 - Heavy Equipment Safety
Staying Safe Around Heavy Equipment on Winter Roads
Good morning everyone,
As we move deeper into the winter road construction season, crews are working long hours in challenging conditions to keep projects moving safely and efficiently. With heavy equipment operating on ice roads, portages, and active work sites, clear and constant communication between equipment operators, ground workers, and travelers is absolutely critical.
Every piece of equipment operating on the winter road must be equipped with a functioning VHF radio. These radios are essential tools—not optional accessories—and must be used consistently to communicate movements, hazards, and changes in traffic flow. When traveling to and from work sites, all workers are required to call out on the VHF when approaching or crossing portages, clearly stating their direction of travel. This ensures that anyone else using the route is aware of oncoming traffic and can slow down, make room, or stop safely.
Always obey posted signage, speed limits, and traffic controls, and remain tuned to your VHF at all times. Winter road conditions can change quickly, and staying informed helps prevent close calls and collisions. Be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance from operating equipment—heavy machinery has numerous blind spots. Never approach equipment unless you have first contacted the operator and confirmed that they have both visual and verbal confirmation of your presence.
Working Safely Around Heavy Equipment
Key Considerations for Operators and Workers
When working in close proximity to heavy equipment, both operators and ground workers share responsibility for maintaining a safe work environment. The following safety practices must always be followed:
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Inspect equipment before operation to ensure all lights, alarms, and audible warning systems are functioning properly.
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Establish clear travel routes with a defined visual path when moving equipment from staging areas to work sites.
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Set up work areas with adequate space, allowing equipment and workers to perform tasks without unnecessary congestion.
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Always use the three-point mounting and dismounting technique when getting on or off equipment. Never jump from heavy equipment.
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Establish and respect danger zones—areas where contact with equipment could result in injury or damage.
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Predefine hand signals or use two-way radios between operators and designated crew leads to control all equipment movement.
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Maintain a clear line of sight at all times. Remember: if you can’t see the operator, the operator can’t see you.
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Use a spotter whenever heavy equipment is in motion. This requires clear, ongoing communication between the spotter, operator, and workers.
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Walk on the driver’s side of equipment whenever possible, as the passenger side typically has larger blind spots.
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Keep a safe distance from all sides of equipment while it is operating.
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Be aware of swing radius hazards, especially with loaders, excavators, and graders. Where possible, cordon off these areas using barriers or caution tape.
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Wear high-visibility clothing and required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
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Never work under a suspended or overhead load.
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Stay alert at all times. Fatigue, cold, and routine can reduce awareness—don’t let complacency take over.
Final Reminder
Winter road work presents unique risks, but those risks can be managed through planning, communication, and awareness.
Those who plan ahead usually keep a close watch all around.
Stay safe, watch out for one another, and never hesitate to speak up or slow things down when safety is at stake.