Struck-by injuries are one of the three most common lost-time injuries in Ontario. They occur when a worker is hit by work tools, by materials, by a vehicle, by equipment such as a backhoe bucket, by flying debris, by earth during a trench collapse, or by any other object.
On this page, we identify some of the dangers of working with heavy vehicles or equipment, and provide links to resources that can help protect you and your co-workers.
Heavy Equipment Hazards
There are a variety of ways that heavy equipment can present hazards if you don't have the proper protection or controls. For example, you can be
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electrocuted if the equipment contacts an overhead powerline
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crushed if your equipment overturns
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struck by or crushed by material being moved by heavy equipment
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crushed if caught between the equipment and a wall or other object
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run over by a heavy vehicle.
Safety Tips
Here are some tips to help you make sure your jobsite is a safe one.
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Whenever possible, plan a drive-through site to eliminate the need for vehicles to back up.
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Train your drivers/operators to know their blind spots.
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Use a signaller where necessary, and make sure the signaller has been trained on standard hand signals.
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Make sure your drivers/operators wear their seatbelts.
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Have your workers wear high-visibility clothing as required.
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When trucks and heavy equipment have to operate in reverse ensure signs are posted warning of the danger and trucks are equipped with an audible back-up alarm.
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The back-up alarm is a legislative requirement O.Reg. 213/91 Sec. 105 for trucks, and the signs required in these situations is covered in O. Reg. 213/91 Sec. 104 (6)
Training
Products
Health and Safety Manual
Our most comprehensive health and safety guide helps workers recognize and protect themselves against health and safety hazards.
Safety Talks
Conducting a five-minute safety talk is hands-on way to remind workers that health and safety are important on the job and can help workers recognize and control hazards.
Health & Safety Policies and Procedures
Resources to help you write your health & safety policy and put together a program to implement the policy. (See Safe work practices/safe job procedures.)
Cranes and Concrete Pumps
Accidents involving tower cranes, mobile cranes, and concrete pumps can have tragic consequences for workers and the public. In the past few years, there have been a number serious incidents and close calls.
For more information, visit our Cranes and Concrete Pumps Topic Page.
Private Fuel Outlet (PFO) Regulations
Did you know that the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) regulates private fuel outlets (PFOs) under the Ontario Regulation 217/01? To find out more, visit the TSSA - Private Fuel Outlets (PFOs) page.
Topics & Hazards |
Heavy Equipment