SWP for skid steer operation

Skid Steer Operation Safe Work Procedure ======================================== Document Number: \[SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: \[DATE] Next Review Date: \[NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: \[DEPARTMENT NAME] 1\. Scope This safe work procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary steps and safety precautions for the safe operation of skid steer loaders. It includes pre-start checks, safe operating procedures, hazard identification, and emergency shutdown procedures. This SWP applies to all personnel who operate or work in the vicinity of skid steer loaders. 2\. Definitions Skid Steer Loader A compact, engine-powered machine with lift arms that can attach to a variety of tools or implements. Rated Operating Capacity (ROC) The maximum weight that a skid steer loader is designed to lift and carry safely. [1] Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) A structure designed to protect the operator in the event of a rollover. [1] 3\. Responsibilities 3\.1 Supervisors Ensure that all operators are trained and competent in the safe operation of skid steer loaders. Conduct regular inspections of skid steer loaders to ensure they are in safe working condition. Enforce all safety rules and procedures related to skid steer loader operation. Ensure that a pre-job briefing is conducted prior to the commencement of any work involving a skid steer loader. 3\.2 Workers Operate skid steer loaders in a safe and responsible manner, following all established procedures. Conduct pre-start checks on skid steer loaders before each use and report any defects or malfunctions to the supervisor. Use all required personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating or working near skid steer loaders. Participate in pre-job briefings and follow all instructions provided by the supervisor. Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately. 4\. Potential Hazards and Risks | Hazard | Risk | Control Measures | | --- | --- | --- |...

Skid Steer Operation Safe Work Procedure

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This safe work procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary steps and safety precautions for the safe operation of skid steer loaders. It includes pre-start checks, safe operating procedures, hazard identification, and emergency shutdown procedures. This SWP applies to all personnel who operate or work in the vicinity of skid steer loaders.

2. Definitions

Skid Steer Loader A compact, engine-powered machine with lift arms that can attach to a variety of tools or implements. Rated Operating Capacity (ROC) The maximum weight that a skid steer loader is designed to lift and carry safely. [1]

Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) A structure designed to protect the operator in the event of a rollover. [1]

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all operators are trained and competent in the safe operation of skid steer loaders.
Conduct regular inspections of skid steer loaders to ensure they are in safe working condition.
Enforce all safety rules and procedures related to skid steer loader operation.
Ensure that a pre-job briefing is conducted prior to the commencement of any work involving a skid steer loader.

3.2 Workers

Operate skid steer loaders in a safe and responsible manner, following all established procedures.
Conduct pre-start checks on skid steer loaders before each use and report any defects or malfunctions to the supervisor.
Use all required personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating or working near skid steer loaders.
Participate in pre-job briefings and follow all instructions provided by the supervisor.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Falls from working around leading edges [1]	Serious injury or fatality from falling from height.	Install and maintain adequate fall protection measures such as guardrails or fall arrest systems when working near leading edges.
Rollovers [1]	Serious injury or fatality from being crushed by the machine.	Operate the skid steer loader on stable surfaces and avoid steep slopes. Never exceed the rated operating capacity (ROC) of the machine. Always wear a seat belt and ensure the ROPS is in place.
Striking workers or pedestrians [1] [1]	Serious injury or fatality from being struck by the machine.	Use barriers or another method to cordon off your work area. That way, you won't have to worry about hitting people in the area. If you have to work near other people, make sure you know where the blind spots are on a skid steer. Make eye contact with anyone entering the work area, and turn off the machine if you need to have a conversation.
Being struck by loader arms or attachments [1]	Serious injury or fatality from being crushed by moving parts.	Never place any part of your body in the path of moving loader arms or attachments. Ensure that all attachments are properly secured and rated for the machine.
Slips and trips [1]	Minor to serious injuries from falls.	Keep walking and working surfaces clean and clear of debris. Wear appropriate footwear with good traction.
Exposure to fumes, noise, and vibration [1] [1]	Respiratory problems, hearing loss, and musculoskeletal disorders.	Use hearing protection when operating it. Ensure adequate ventilation when operating in enclosed spaces. Take regular breaks to reduce exposure to vibration.
Contact with suspended rebar during demolition [4] [4] [4]	Impalement and potential fatality.	Never allow employees to work on a level while demolition machinery is working on the level above them. Conduct an ongoing hazard survey during a demolition project to identify potential hazards, such as suspended rebar.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hard Hat: Provides head protection from falling objects and impacts.
Safety Glasses: Protects eyes from dust, debris, and other potential hazards.
Hearing Protection: Reduces the risk of hearing loss from prolonged exposure to high noise levels. [1]
Steel-Toed Boots: Protects feet from crushing injuries and punctures.
High-Visibility Clothing: Increases visibility to other workers and equipment operators.

6. Equipment and Tools

Skid Steer Loader: Ensure the machine is appropriate for the task and in good working order. Check all fluid levels, tires, and safety devices before operation.
Attachments: Ensure any attachments used are rated for your machine. Remember that an attachment will reduce your load capacity. [1]
Barriers or Cones: Used to cordon off the work area and keep pedestrians away.
Communication Devices: Two-way radios or hand signals for effective communication with other workers.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: All operators must be trained and certified in the safe operation of skid steer loaders. Training must include classroom instruction, hands-on training, and a competency assessment. Review the user manual before operating a skid steer. [1]

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: A pre-job briefing must be conducted before starting any work with the skid steer loader. The briefing should cover the scope of the work, potential hazards, and control measures. All workers involved in the operation must attend the briefing.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Inspect the work area for any hazards such as uneven surfaces, buried objects, or overhead obstructions. Ensure that the work area is clear of pedestrians and other equipment. If working on an elevated floor, make sure the floor can support the weight of the machine. If working on an elevated slab, ensure bumpers or barriers are installed in front of all openings. [1] [1]

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Pre-Start Inspection: Before operating the skid steer loader, perform a thorough pre-start inspection. Check all fluid levels (oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid), inspect tires for damage and proper inflation, and ensure all safety devices (seat belt, ROPS, interlocks) are in good working order. Check all high-pressure hydraulics for leaks. [1] [1]
- Check fluid levels
- Inspect tires
- Test safety devices
Starting the Engine: Ensure that the parking brake is engaged and the bucket is lowered to the ground. Start the engine according to the manufacturer's instructions. Start loader only when seated in the operator's seat. [5]
- Engage parking brake
- Lower bucket
- Follow manufacturer's instructions
Operating the Skid Steer Loader: Operate the skid steer loader smoothly and avoid sudden stops, starts, and turns. Adjust your speed to suit the working conditions and terrain. Keep the bucket as low as possible when travelling or turning. A skid steer becomes less stable the higher you raise the loader arms. [1] [1]
- Smooth operation
- Adjust speed
- Keep bucket low
Loading and Unloading: Load, unload, and turn on level ground when possible. Never exceed the rated operating capacity (ROC) of the machine. Keep other workers clear from the work area when lifting a load. [3] [3]
- Level ground
- Do not exceed ROC
- Keep area clear
Working on Slopes: Do not travel across slopes. Travel straight up or down with the machine's heavy end pointed uphill. Determine the uphill, downhill and side slope ratings for the machine and determine the slope grade. [2]
- Straight up or down
- Heavy end uphill
- Determine slope grade
Shutting Down the Engine: Before leaving the operator's seat: Lower the bucket flat on the ground. Set the parking brake. Turn off the engine. [2]
- Lower bucket
- Engage parking brake
- Turn off engine
Changing Attachments: Always turn your machine off before changing attachments. Make sure that the attachment locking devices are engaged, even if you are switching attachments for only a few minutes. If an attachment is not locked, it could break free and roll back down the loader arms. [1] [1]
- Turn off machine
- Engage locking devices
- Ensure secure attachment

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Always wear a seat belt and/or the seat bar. [1]
Never carry riders on the skid steer loader. [2]
Keep bystanders away from the work area. [2]
Never modify or bypass safety devices. [2]
Operate the loader only when properly positioned in the operator's compartment, never from the outside. [2]

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, immediately stop the machine, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Assess the situation and provide first aid if necessary. Contact emergency services and provide them with the location and nature of the emergency.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Skid steer loader rollover: If the skid steer loader rolls over, remain in the seat with your seatbelt fastened. Brace yourself and wait for the machine to come to a complete stop. Once the machine is stable, carefully exit the machine and seek medical attention.
Fire: If a fire occurs, immediately stop the machine and turn off the engine. Evacuate the area and use a fire extinguisher to put out the fire if it is safe to do so. Contact emergency services and provide them with the location and nature of the fire.
Mechanical Failure: If the machine experiences a mechanical failure, safely bring the machine to a stop in a safe location. Engage the parking brake, turn off the engine, and notify a supervisor or mechanic for repair.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, near misses, and hazards must be reported to the supervisor immediately. The report should include the date, time, location, and a description of the incident or hazard. Any injuries sustained must be reported and documented.

All reported incidents will be investigated to determine the root cause and to prevent recurrence. The investigation will be conducted by a team of qualified personnel and will include a review of the incident, interviews with witnesses, and an analysis of the work environment. Corrective actions will be implemented to address the root cause of the incident.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]