A front end loader rolled onto its roof while its operator was constructing an embankment to detour material away from the water supply, according to an accident alert issued by the Mine Safety and Health Administration. The machine backed over top of the roadway berm, slid down the embankment before toppling over. The operator unfastened his seat belt and escaped through the broken window on right side door.
Best Practices:
- Always wear your seatbelt.
- Maintain control of mobile equipment by traveling safe speeds and not overloading equipment.
- The size and weight of front end loaders, combined with the limited visibility from the cab, makes the job of backing a front end loader potentially hazardous. To prevent a mishap
- Load the bucket evenly and avoid overloading (refer to the load limits in the operating manual). Keep the bucket low when operating on hills.
- Construct berms or other restraints of adequate height and strength to prevent overtravel and warn operators of hazardous areas.
- Ensure that objects inside of the cab are secured so they don’t become airborne during an accident.
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