As we start into the winter season, I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I would like to congratulate Business Manager Mike Bowes and elected officials on being installed at the September Body Meeting as well as congratulations to Kevin Murray on his new role as Organizer.

Topic: Blind Spot Awareness Around Heavy Equipment

Every year, workers are injured or killed because they are struck by moving equipment. One of the leading causes of these incidents is poor visibility and lack of attention to detail/awareness of equipment blind spots. Heavy equipment such as excavators, loaders, haul trucks, cranes and dozers all have areas where the operator cannot see people or objects, especially directly behind or beside the machine. Mirrors and cameras can help, but they do not eliminate these blind spots entirely. The larger the equipment, the larger the blind spot, and visibility can be further reduced by poor lighting, or adverse weather conditions.

Operators play a critical role in preventing blind spot incidents. Before starting a machine, it is important to perform a 360-degree walk-around to check for people, tools, or obstacles. Using spotters when swinging a machine, when backing up, or operating in congested areas is recommended, as is clear communication with ground personnel through hand signals or radios. Operators should never assume the area is clear and should stop operations immediately if a person enters their blind spot. Mirrors and cameras should be properly adjusted before work and the horn/swing alarm should be sounded before moving, especially after the machine has been idle.

Always make eye contact with the operator before approaching and never enter a machine’s swing radius or travel path without acknowledgment. Walking behind equipment should be avoided even if you believe the operator can see you. Maintaining safe distances and using designated walkways wherever possible is critical to preventing accidents.

Blind spot incidents often occur when workers become too comfortable around equipment. Complacency is a major contributing factor and a momentary lapse in attention can have serious consequences. Staying alert, visible, and aware of your surroundings every time you work near heavy equipment can prevent injuries and save lives. 

Stay alert. Stay visible. Stay safe.

Peter Carpenter

Co-Safety Officer