DUMPER OPERATORS

DUMPER OPERATORS

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Dumpers vary in type and size from two wheel to four wheel drive, rear wheel or articulated steering. The skips come in different shapes from the normal front tipping to special side discharge, high lift and concrete skips. Operators are responsible for using their item on plant in a safe manner, ensure that plant is never overloaded, and the that machine is in good working order. All operators must be assessed as to their competence to operate nominated items of plant.

HAZARDS

• Movement/Spillage of load
• Overloading of dumper - difficult to manoeuvre
• Ground conditions - ability to take safe route

HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

General

• Operator to hold relevant certificate for type of dumper, where required current driving licence and have a safety awareness training certificate
• Operator to be aware of company or site maintenance scheme, reporting procedures in the event of breakdowns and his responsibility for normal daily checks ie lights, oil, tyres, diesel, etc as required by the maintenance scheme
• Never take a dumper on public roads unless it is licensed and equipped for road use and the operator has a current driving licence

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On Site

• Drive sensibly and observe speed limits and any other restrictions imposed by site management
• Do not travel across banks and use lower gear on down gradients. Drive with care on roads with excessive camber and when carrying overhanging loads
• Before tipping make sure that it is safe to do so and when tipping into excavations a stop must be provided for the front wheels at least 1 meter from edge to prevent the dumper from falling into to excavation
• Never leave the dumper unattended with the engine running
• At the end of a working day, park the dumper on level ground and effectively immobilized - seek advice if necessary 

QUSTIONS

• What checks must the operator carry out before commencing work each day/shift?
• What must the operator do whilst macine is being loaded?
• What rules apply when tipping into an excavation?

SAFETY REMINDER

Always check you load/brakes/hazard lights when travelling around site. Always drive with due consideration for other employees. Take care when handling hazardous substances - diesel, etc can cause dermatitis.