# How to Safely Operate Construction Machinery? Basic Rules > Discover the essentials of operating construction machinery safely and efficiently. This article covers everything from understanding the risks, improving operator qualifications, machine knowledge, pre-work inspections, risk assessment, to machine servicing. A must-read for all construction site workers. ### Operating machinery - how to do it well and safely? So far, our guides have mainly discussed **technical issues** related to the proper operation of construction machinery. This time, we will talk about the absolute **basics**. In this text, the **reminders** or perhaps even **realizations** of the rules that must be followed in order to safely operate the machine - safely, meaning with the **lowest** risk of accident and serious failure. It's worth reading, as many of these rules are **trivialized** on Polish construction sites. ![Machines at work](https://wibako.com/media/articles/article-111/construction-site-3688252-1280.webp) ### Awareness of hazards Working on a construction machine has always been and will be **dangerous**, despite the fact that manufacturers do **a lot** to increase the safety level of operators. There are many hazards in working on a machine, such as the risk of **damaging technical infrastructure** (high voltage lines or gas installations). Therefore, before allowing the operator to work, he should be familiarized with the basic **safety rules**, with a strong emphasis on training and the introduction of strict regulations within the company. ### Training, improving the qualifications of operators A construction machine can only be operated by a person with **appropriate permissions** and a **current medical certificate** confirming the ability to work as an operator. The employer's duty is to send employees for **required examinations** and **periodic training**. In addition, it is definitely worth investing in vocational training for operators, which significantly increase their **competences** and **skills**, and also allow them to keep up with health and safety regulations. Let's also remind that every newly hired operator must familiarize himself with the **general instruction** and the workstation instruction, as required by health and safety regulations. ![excavator at work](https://wibako.com/media/articles/article-111/work-1214636-1280.webp) ### Good knowledge of the machine The starting point for working on a machine is always its **DTR**, i.e. **Technical and Operational Documentation**. It is the operator's duty to familiarize himself with this documentation and to regularly refer to it later. In the DTR, we will find all the **manufacturer's recommendations** regarding safe work on the machine. It contains a technical description of the machine, the scope of permissible work, and also information about the type of additional equipment used. ### Before starting work The operator should have the habit of **inspecting the machine each time** before starting work. In the morning, it is worth checking for any **leaks**, whether the **engine oil level** is correct, whether there are any **visible mechanical damages**, etc. Let's also remind here that the operator has the right, and even the **duty** to refuse to start work if his safety is in any way threatened due to the **malfunction of the machine**. Moreover, it is forbidden to use machines without **appropriate** safety and signaling devices. If, however, the working conditions conflict with **safety standards**, the operator is obliged to inform his superior about it. ![loader during work](https://wibako.com/media/articles/article-111/construction-site-3304815-1280.webp) ### Risk assessment Before starting work on a construction site, it is necessary to carry out a **risk assessment** for the task, i.e. to examine and prepare the place of work. It is necessary to check the **ground resistance** and identify potential hazards in the form of, for example, **high voltage lines** running near the work site. After taking these factors into account, a dangerous zone should be designated, which should not be smaller than the working range of the machine. The place of work should be **properly marked** with warning signs and protective railings. Finally, important factors that have a major impact on the safety of working on a construction machine: - **Good psychophysical condition of the operator** - the employee must be rested and cannot be under the influence of alcohol or other psychoactive substances, - Wearing **work clothes and personal protective equipment**, - **No smoking** while refueling the machine, - **Waiting for the engine to cool down** before checking the coolant level, - **Ensuring efficient ventilation** during the start-up of the machine in a closed room, - **Being careful when operating the machine** - for example when inflating tires, - **Using lighting** during work in conditions of limited visibility, - **Parking the machine in a safe place**, on flat terrain. ### Servicing the machine The **efficiency of the equipment used** has a huge impact on work safety. Therefore, machine owners, but also operators, should not **ignore signals** indicating a failure. It is necessary to diligently monitor mandatory inspections and perform service activities recommended by the manufacturer. These should be entrusted to a specialized workshop with advanced diagnostic equipment. It is also important not to forget about **regular maintenance** and storing the machine in appropriate conditions during the off-season. Published: 2024-03-25 --- Source: https://wibako.com/about-us/blog/111-how-to-safely-operate-construction-machinery-basic-rules Contact: +48338704200, biuro@wibako.pl