Trench Safety Starts with A Proper Dismount

The National Utility Contractors Association has declared this June “Trench Safety Month.” To kick off this month, week 1 discusses both the risks and proper techniques for dismounting equipment. Learning how to properly dismount equipment is important because injuries and even fatalities have been known to occur when operators jump down, slip, trip or fall while attempting to climb onto or descend from various types of construction equipment. The proper procedure for mounting and dismounting construction equipment varies by machine, so it is important to be familiar with the model of machinery you are working with. 

Although every piece of equipment is different, there are 10 best common practices for mounting or dismounting that all workers should know and consider for each type of construction equipment:

1. Use a three-point contact - place either two hands and one foot, or one hand and two feet on the equipment 
2. Use handrails, handholds, and steps 
3. Never use operating levers or steering wheels instead of handholds and handrails
4. Face equipment and step squarely, never at an angle 
5. Never jump off the equipment
6. Maintain traction by scraping the soles of your footwear - this ensures your footwear is free of dirt, oil, snow, and grease
7. Clean the rungs and cleats of your equipment’s access ladders 
8. Be aware of weather conditions that may cause your boots to pick up ice, snow, mud, or oil
9. Visually inspect landing areas for trip or slip hazards 
10. Never mount or dismount moving equipment

To learn more about the best practices for dismounting equipment, please visit: https://image.mail.thehartford.com/lib/fe66157075650d7f7013/m/8/39ec5ac0-a74b-4b47-afb3-9c514ce1db97.pdf?cmp=EMC-ML-Construction2205-83679135. 

DII is your partner in trench and equipment safety. Our team of experts can work with you to understand how to teach your employees best safety practices in the field. Please contact your DII representative for more information.  #TrenchSafetyMonth #Dismounting #Equipment