Every heavy-duty vehicle should be carefully operated in order to ensure that safety can and will be given a top priority. When working with vacuum trucks, it is likewise true that the operation of this massive extraction machine must be carefully and skillfully handled to make every job operation as safe as it can be.
While proper training on the use of these vehicles is of high importance, it is also necessary that the entire job site be carefully monitored and controlled as well. Such action could involve anything from being sure that bystanders do not get too close to the work area to how well the vacuum truck equipment is used when in operation. Preventing accidents, injury, and any other problems including damage to the equipment is dependent upon having a level head and good control of the work site.
Practice Correct Equipment Use
It is important that everyone involved in the vacuum truck operation understand a few important yet basic aspects about the safe and correct use of this massive vehicle. The truck itself should be positioned so that there is as straight a line as possible from the vehicle to the work site with as few bends as possible. A straight line from the pump site to the truck is optimal as it allows for the least amount of friction and obstructions, thereby reducing the chance of clogs occurring in the hose line.
Use hoses that have the largest possible diameter as that will help to increase job efficiency; be sure that the end of the hose is properly clamped to the vacuum intake. All hoses being used should be of the same diameter; also be sure that a safety relief valve has been installed along the line. In taking these important steps, fewer problems getting the job done should be encountered.
Protect Operators and Bystanders
When working with vacuum trucks and even when a job seems completely safe and easy, it is vital to follow all established operational rules and guidelines especially regarding the safety of anyone else around the job site. This may require having another worker handle traffic control if working on a traveled street or simply keeping homeowners away from the job site when working in residential areas.
Set up signs or cones if necessary so that oncoming traffic is alerted that work is occurring; a second worker should be posted to watch for anyone coming near the truck or pumping area. Section off as large of an area as possible around the work site to create a buffer zone to prevent any vehicles or bystanders from getting too close, which can be a lifesaving option for both workers and the public.
Make Safety a Top Priority
Even though it may seem as if using a vacuum truck is a fairly safe job with accidents an unlikely occurrence, not focusing on the entire job operation can cause accidents and injury to both workers and others who may be in close vicinity of the work site. Following all safety procedures in regard to truck positioning, equipment set up, and other safety factors is essential and should never be taken for granted. Correct procedures while actually performing the job as to proper equipment use as well as wearing all protective gear is important to prevent injury to those performing the actual job operation. It is also essential to have a plan of action in case any problems should arise, whether with the equipment, workers, or bystanders.
The best fleet crews are those who know the job well and always stay safe during the procedure. Companies should provide refresher courses for all workers on updated safety measures, the correct use of vacuum truck equipment, and all other means of keeping every job site under excellent control!
Showing posts with label Safety. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Safety. Show all posts
Friday, October 26, 2012
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Important Insulated Bucket Truck Safety Facts!
Bucket trucks are very versatile pieces of equipment that have become important utility vehicles on the modern construction job-site. The bucket that is attached to the boom is the mechanism that enables a worker to perform many aerial tasks. Along with its usefulness, there are many hazards associated with the entire boom apparatus. Electrocution is one of those hazards and has become the primary cause of injuries and even fatalities.
Insulation Facts
Owning an insulated bucket truck does not necessarily make the operator immune from electrocution. Just like any other piece of equipment, these vehicles' parts contain metal which is a strong conductor of electricity. Even with an insulated boom, there are parts that do not provide any insulation. For example, these vehicles may have a band of arrows to indicate the point at which the insulated part of the upper boom ends.
In addition, covers and guards that are installed do not fully guarantee protection from electrocution in cases of power line contact, so it is better to take extra precautions and not rely solely on the insulation that is part of the vehicle.
Non-Utility Usage
There are quite a few non-utility company operators who routinely use bucket trucks for aerial tasks that place them close to live utility lines. Their job may be to put up holiday lights, trim trees, paint buildings and other high structural maintenance work. Awareness about the dangers of working near live power lines is necessary for such workers.
It is highly recommended that non-utility company operators know and practice safety standards for such tasks; they should be aware of the risks of working near live power lines. The following are recommended safety procedures for non-utility company bucket truck operators to perform prior to beginning any aerial work.
* Check for No Ground Path - Be sure to check that the equipment is free from any ground paths, especially with the insulated bucket of the truck. Always remember not to rely completely on the insulated protection provided with the vehicle.
* Tool Job Ratings - Check all electrical tools and equipment to make sure that they have the correct job ratings.
* Check Insulation Barriers - Make sure that all insulation barriers and other equipment subject to wear-and-tear are checked routinely. Never use any tools or equipment that are dirty, wet or with deteriorated insulation.
* De-energize Power Lines - For aerial tasks that will be performed near power lines, ask the utility company to de-energize the lines or install additional protective insulation for the duration of the task.
When the work has begun, following are some important things to remember:
* Do Not Touch Any Line - Operators should treat all wires and utility cables as if they are energized and should not attempt to touch them.
* Keep Safe Clearance - Make sure that there is adequate clearance between the equipment and the bucket of the truck and all electrical wires. It is recommended to keep at least ten feet away.
* Wear Protective Gear Always - All operators should wear approved protective gear when performing jobs that are electrical in nature, for example, putting up decorative lights.
* Don't Use Tools Near Lines - If the operator needs to use a tool that extends away from the bucket, be sure that the truck is positioned further than the length of the tool from any electrical wires.
For all operators, safety should be the first concern. All workers should be familiar with the equipment and be well informed about the work site where the jobs will be performed. A comprehensive bucket truck training and certification program is very important to preserve life and property; it should be the goal of every operator to complete a training and certification program. Should any uncertainties arise during operations, it is better to seek help from professionals and thereby prevent injury or loss of life. Insulated bucket truck safety facts are the most important thing a worker can learn before operating this heavy duty equipment!
Insulation Facts
Owning an insulated bucket truck does not necessarily make the operator immune from electrocution. Just like any other piece of equipment, these vehicles' parts contain metal which is a strong conductor of electricity. Even with an insulated boom, there are parts that do not provide any insulation. For example, these vehicles may have a band of arrows to indicate the point at which the insulated part of the upper boom ends.
In addition, covers and guards that are installed do not fully guarantee protection from electrocution in cases of power line contact, so it is better to take extra precautions and not rely solely on the insulation that is part of the vehicle.
Non-Utility Usage
There are quite a few non-utility company operators who routinely use bucket trucks for aerial tasks that place them close to live utility lines. Their job may be to put up holiday lights, trim trees, paint buildings and other high structural maintenance work. Awareness about the dangers of working near live power lines is necessary for such workers.
It is highly recommended that non-utility company operators know and practice safety standards for such tasks; they should be aware of the risks of working near live power lines. The following are recommended safety procedures for non-utility company bucket truck operators to perform prior to beginning any aerial work.
* Check for No Ground Path - Be sure to check that the equipment is free from any ground paths, especially with the insulated bucket of the truck. Always remember not to rely completely on the insulated protection provided with the vehicle.
* Tool Job Ratings - Check all electrical tools and equipment to make sure that they have the correct job ratings.
* Check Insulation Barriers - Make sure that all insulation barriers and other equipment subject to wear-and-tear are checked routinely. Never use any tools or equipment that are dirty, wet or with deteriorated insulation.
* De-energize Power Lines - For aerial tasks that will be performed near power lines, ask the utility company to de-energize the lines or install additional protective insulation for the duration of the task.
When the work has begun, following are some important things to remember:
* Do Not Touch Any Line - Operators should treat all wires and utility cables as if they are energized and should not attempt to touch them.
* Keep Safe Clearance - Make sure that there is adequate clearance between the equipment and the bucket of the truck and all electrical wires. It is recommended to keep at least ten feet away.
* Wear Protective Gear Always - All operators should wear approved protective gear when performing jobs that are electrical in nature, for example, putting up decorative lights.
* Don't Use Tools Near Lines - If the operator needs to use a tool that extends away from the bucket, be sure that the truck is positioned further than the length of the tool from any electrical wires.
For all operators, safety should be the first concern. All workers should be familiar with the equipment and be well informed about the work site where the jobs will be performed. A comprehensive bucket truck training and certification program is very important to preserve life and property; it should be the goal of every operator to complete a training and certification program. Should any uncertainties arise during operations, it is better to seek help from professionals and thereby prevent injury or loss of life. Insulated bucket truck safety facts are the most important thing a worker can learn before operating this heavy duty equipment!
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