Renting Equipment? Remember These 3 Safety Tips
As a contractor who is renting equipment for any type of job, it can be easy to forget about being safe if you're concentrating on the job itself. However, being mindful of safety can protect people on the site, as well as the equipment you're renting. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind as you work on an project.
Understand the Equipment You're Renting
When you know a little bit about the machines you're using, you and your employees are more likely to stay safe. You won't allow too many people to stand on the platform of a lift truck, for instance. You will also be able to avoid damage to the rental equipment when you know about a particular machine's maximum load and other specifications.
Inspect the Equipment Daily
Some people imagine that rented equipment doesn't need to be inspected. After all, one of the reasons you may be renting equipment is that you know rental companies like All-Star Equipment maintain their equipment well. However, to keep people and equipment safe, daily inspections are crucial.
Be sure that operators can get in and out of the cabs without a problem. Check the equipment itself to make sure that all the cables are intact, the motor is working well and there are no cracks or other signs of distress. Ensure that the tires are fully inflated and that the windows are clean.
In addition to checking the equipment before and after each use, also keep an eye on changes in the environment that could affect equipment use. For instance, if there has been a lot of rain, the ground may not stable and it may be necessary to wait until the ground is dry before using the rented equipment. Also, keep an eye out for electrical hazards.
Use Experienced, Safety-Conscious Drivers
Just as you want to use the right machine for the job, your project will go more smoothly if you only use drivers that are properly trained. However, it is not enough that the drivers are properly trained; they must also behave in a way that is safety-conscious.
For instance, ensure that operators are not using controls and levers as handgrips when they enter an excavator. Check to see if operators are moving the equipment too quickly, which could jeopardize the stability of the load and the safety of those in the area. Make sure that operators are always wearing protective gear and wearing seatbelts. If you observe unsafe behavior, address it immediately before there is an accident; don't wait.
Keep the above tips in mind and your work site will be safer, and the project will go more smoothly. Talk with your equipment rental company about even more ways to get your project finished safely and efficiently.