Skid Steer Toolbox Talk
Brief your crews on the safety best practices for operating a skid steer on the jobsite.
Skid Steer Safety Talk
When working on a construction job site you may come in contact with some equipment you will need to use including a skid steer. While these pieces of equipment may seem small in size the hazards they can create are rather large. It is important to recognize the dangers that come with operating a skid steer and follow the best safety precautions to keep yourself and your coworkers safe.
What Is A Skid Steer?
A skid steer loader, also known as a skid steer is a small construction vehicle that can be used for a variety of tasks. They typically come with a bucket as an attachment but you can change them out depending on the task.
The skid steer gets its name from the way it turns. The angle of the wheels or tracks are fixed, so they will only point straight ahead. The wheels on each side are locked in synchronization with each other and have their own engines. This means you have to steer each side independently from the opposite side. Since the wheels are fixed you can not steer by angling the wheels in a different direction. Instead, you steer by speeding up either the left or right side of the vehicle causing the wheels to drag, or skid across the ground. This type of steering is also called differential steering. This makes it easy to fit in tight spaces and make zero-degree turns when needed. In order to operate a skid steer you should be properly trained, to reduce the dangers to you and your coworkers.
Hazards Associated With A Skid Steer
There are several hazards for the workers that are operating a skid steer as well as the workers who are around one. Some of the common and major hazards you should make yourself aware of include:
Safety Practices for Skid Steers
Skid steers are often used on the construction job site because they are so versatile. With the right safety precautions, injuries can be prevented. The following practices will help minimize hazards and injuries associated with operating a skid steer.
Skid Steer Training
OSHA's Code of Federal Regulations Subpart C "General Safety and Health" provisions require that skid steer operators be trained under CFR 1926.21(b)(2) and CFR 1926.20(b)(4) requirements. Employers are required to train operators so they can recognize and avoid unsafe conditions, Training must be done so that the operator is fully capable of safely handling the equipment at their worksite. Only workers that are qualified through training can operate a skid steer on a job site. When you are being trained to operate a skid steer it should include classroom time with a written exam as well as on the job training. If this is something you are interested in being trained properly for, talk to your foreman.
A skid steer is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment. It can be used for agricultural, construction, and landscaping operations. However, skid steers are complex and they are dangerous if you do not know how to operate them. Should you get injured on a skid steer or see a coworker who is injured immediately seek medical attention and let your supervisor know.
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