Compaction Safety

Compaction Safety is very important. Ignoring safety procedures when operating compactors could be a costly mistake. Here are a few safety tips to help avoid an accident.

Jobsite preparation:

Slopes on job sites are always a danger for compactor operators. Be sure to always check job site area for slopes and obstacles prior to working. Walking the job site is a great way check your surroundings. Walking the site will give you a good idea of where you should and shouldn’t run your compactor. This will also allow you to search for other obstacles like drop-offs, steep slopes, holes and overhead obstacles.

Seat belt Usage:

Using your seatbelt while operating a compactor is very important. Most compactors are equipped with ROPS (roll over protection system). This does not mean it is safe to operate the machine without a seatbelt. Even if you plan to keep your compactor on a level surface, you might discover a hidden obstacle, run across slippery or loose material, or mis-judge the distance between the compactors drums and the edge of the slope. Without a seatbelt on, one of these obstacles could cause the machine to rollover and you could be ejected from the operators seat and then injured by the ROPS, or the machine itself.

Know How to approach a slope:

You can greatly decrease your chance of rollover if you know how to work a slop. The number one rule is avoid traveling sideways on a slope. Always work a slope in an up and down pattern. Make sure to maintain appropriate speed for the terrain at all times. If the slope you are working is steep, make sure to put the compactor in the correct gear before approaching the slope. Avoid changing gear selections while in motion on the slope. If at any time you think you are too close to a slope edge, stop the machine and assess the situation from the ground. Never try and gauge the distance from the operators seat.

Following these simple compaction safety tips could greatly reduce the chance of injury or death caused by improper safety and operation. Please visit Tracey Road Equipment today for additional information or questions regarding compactors.