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| RISK ASSESSMENT FOR USING AN EXCAVATOR AS A LIFTING APPLIANCE |
This HSE document "Risk Assessment For Using An Excavator As A Lifting Appliance" uploaded by HSE Documents states that using an excavator for lifting poses several risks. These include overloading the excavator, instability due to uneven ground or improper lifting technique, and dropped loads due to unsuitable attachments or sling failure. Additionally, the excavator's design may not provide the precise control needed for safe lifting operations compared to dedicated cranes. A proper risk assessment should consider these factors and ensure the excavator is designed for lifting, has the necessary attachments, and is operated by a competent person following a safe lifting plan.
Task Description:
Using an excavator as a lifting appliance
Persons at Risk:
Site Operatives and Adjacent Workforce
Activities
Reversing/movement of the plant around the site of the plant
Use of equipment
Failure of lifting equipment
Contact with moving plants or falling materials
Hazard
Injury to operatives, damage to machinery
Injury to operatives/damage to equipment through operator negligence Crushing of Operatives. Failure of lifting equipment - Injury to operatives, damage to machinery
Injury to operatives/damage to equipment through operator negligence
Crushing of Operatives
Control Measures
1-Turn around the area to be provided at all times. Flashing beacons are to be used on all mobile plants. Banksman to be present at all times for all vehicles to have all-round visibility or reversing cameras
2-Plant only to be operated by designated drivers holding current CPCS certificate of competence. THE BUCKET OF THE EXCAVATOR IS TO BE REMOVED FOR ALL LIFTING OPERATIONS. Operator to have competency in lifting operations. Operators should ensure slewing areas are clear of operatives before boom movement and no operatives are within any crush zones adjacent to other structures. It may be necessary to erect barriers if pedestrian access is minimal in the vicinity of the machine slewing area.
3-All lifting equipment is to be covered by the current certificate of test and inspection. Permit to lift to be issued by Main Contractor where applicable. Excavator to be fitted with check valves and Safe Load Indicator. All lifting equipment is to be stamped with a safe working load and a unique identification number. All lifting using an excavator is to be planned by an appointed Person.
4-Operators must wear safety footwear, high visibility clothing, and safety helmets at all times whilst out of the cab.
Hazards:
Instability:
Hazard: The excavator may become unstable during lifting operations.
Consequence: Risk of tipping, leading to injuries or damage to the equipment.
Control Measures:
Ensure the excavator is on stable ground.
Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for load capacity.
Overloading:
Hazard: Exceeding the excavator's load capacity.
Consequence: Structural failure, posing a risk to personnel and property.
Control Measures:
Clearly understand and adhere to the machine's load capacity.
Use calibrated load indicators if available.
Falling Objects:
Hazard: Unsecured loads or improper lifting methods.
Consequence: Objects falling from a height, causing injury or damage.
Control Measures:
Secure loads properly using appropriate lifting attachments.
Establish exclusion zones and warn personnel in the vicinity.
Contact with Overhead Power Lines:
Hazard: Excavator boom or load coming into contact with power lines.
Consequence: Risk of electrocution and equipment damage.
Control Measures:
Identify the location of power lines and maintain a safe distance.
Use spotters to guide the operator in areas with overhead hazards.
Control Measures:
Training and Competency:
Provide comprehensive training for operators on safe lifting practices.
Ensure operators are certified and competent in operating the excavator.
Pre-Operational Checks:
Conduct thorough pre-operational checks to identify and address potential issues.
Regularly inspect lifting attachments for wear and tear.
Load Calculations:
Clearly understand and adhere to the excavator's load capacity.
Consider the load distribution and lifting points for balanced loads.
Communication:
Establish clear communication channels between the operator and ground personnel.
Use hand signals, radios, or other communication devices as needed.
Exclusion Zones:
Define and enforce exclusion zones around the lifting area.
Restrict unauthorized personnel from entering the work zone.
Emergency Procedures:
Develop and communicate emergency procedures for lifting operations.
Ensure all personnel are aware of emergency shutdown and evacuation procedures.
Use of Safety Devices:
Utilize safety devices such as load indicators and limit switches.
Regularly inspect and maintain these safety devices.
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