Heavy Equipment Exclusion Zones

Date: 2026-02-23

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To establish and maintain effective exclusion zones around heavy equipment to prevent struck-by incidents and injuries.

Introduction

Working around heavy equipment poses significant risks. Approximately 75% of construction-related "struck by" and "run over" fatalities involve heavy equipment. It is crucial to understand and respect the danger zones associated with this equipment. [1]

Hazard Identification

Common hazards include blind spots, swing radius, falling materials, and the movement of the equipment itself. [1] [1] [1] [1]

• Struck by swinging equipment: Severe injury or death due to impact from the rotating parts of the equipment. [1] [1]
• Equipment Blind Spots: Workers on the ground may not be visible to the operator, leading to run-over accidents. [2]
• Falling Materials: Being struck by falling loads or materials being moved by the equipment. [1]
• Overhead hazards: Contact with overhead power lines or other overhead obstructions. [1]

Control Measures

• Establish Danger Zones: Clearly mark and define danger zones around all operating heavy equipment. [1]
• Use Spotters: Employ trained spotters to assist operators, especially when operating in reverse or in congested areas. [2]
• Traffic Control Plans: Develop and implement a comprehensive traffic control plan to minimize the need for backing and ensure clear travel routes. [2]
• Audible Alarms: Ensure all equipment is equipped with functioning audible backup alarms. [2]
• Equipment Inspection: Regularly inspect equipment to ensure all lights and alarms are functioning correctly. [2]
• Maintain Safe Distance: Workers should maintain a safe distance from all sides of operating heavy equipment. [2]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• High-Visibility Clothing: Wear high-visibility clothing to ensure you are seen by equipment operators and other workers. [2]
• Steel-Toed Boots: Provide foot protection from crushing hazards. [4]
• Hard Hats: Protect your head from falling objects and other potential impacts. [6]

Real-World Example or Case Study

A construction inspector was fatally struck by a dump truck backing up despite wearing a reflective vest and the truck having a functioning backup alarm. The inspector was behind the vehicle. This highlights the importance of spotters and maintaining awareness even when safety devices are in place. [3]

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

1. Are there any areas on our site with particularly limited visibility for equipment operators?
2. What additional hazards have you observed related to heavy equipment operations?
3. What can we do to improve communication between equipment operators and ground personnel?

Emergency Procedures

1. Stop work immediately if someone enters the exclusion zone. [4]
2. Alert the operator and other workers in the area.
3. Ensure the individual is safely outside the danger zone before resuming work. [4]

Questions and Answers

• Q: What should I do if I need to enter a marked exclusion zone?

A: Always get the operator's attention, make eye contact, and receive confirmation that it is safe to enter. [5]

• Q: How often should equipment be inspected?

A: Equipment should be inspected daily before operation to ensure all safety devices are functioning properly. [2]

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Always be aware of your surroundings and the location of heavy equipment. [1]
• Respect exclusion zones and never enter without proper communication and authorization. [4]
• Use appropriate PPE, including high-visibility clothing, steel-toed boots, and hard hats. [2]
• Follow traffic control plans and use spotters to enhance safety. [2]

Remember: Stay out of the Zone of Danger!

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

Safety powered by SALUS