Working in and around trenches is a regular part of many construction and utility projects. It’s so common that crew members can sometimes forget that working near trenches can be dangerous if the right precautions aren’t taken. The good news is that most jobsite accidents involving trenches can be easily avoided. Follow this guide to […]
Post Type Archives: Best Practice
How to Sanitize Heavy Equipment
Properly sanitizing heavy equipment is essential for maintaining the health, safety, and productivity of your team. Truck and machine cabs can be ideal environments for harboring and transmitting viruses and other illnesses. Despite the fact that operators are typically alone in the cab, all it takes is one mechanic, supervisor, or second shift operator to […]
Boost Productivity through Automated Grade Control
Grading is a crucial part of preparing land for development. It plays a critical role in giving you a mapped overview of the work area, and, if done correctly, it helps cut down on the time needed to complete construction projects. By controlling your bucket or blade, automated grade control systems make the necessary adjustments […]
Checklist for Cold Weather Operation
Use the best fuelMake sure you are using high quality winter diesel fuel. The fuel conditioner should match the type of fuel you are using (e.g., low sulfur) and should be approved by manufacturer. Check starting devicesCheck to make sure block heaters and cold weather starting devices are working properly. Warm up the machineLet […]
Staying Warm in Cold Temperatures
During the winter months, it’s important to stay warm when working outdoors in cold temperatures to retain body heat and avoid hypothermia and frostbite. The following best practices will help you and your team operating in the winter. Prepare your equipment Air FiltersCheck, and if necessary replace, air filters in the cab to improve your […]
Radiator Care
Never open or inspect the radiator while the engine is running or the system is hot Personal injury can result from hot, pressurized coolant. Always shut off the engine and allow the radiator to cool before examining the system or beginning any work. Keep coolant fresh It’s estimated that 40%-60% of engine failures are coolant […]
Preseason Preparation
Follow these best practices to make sure your machine is operating at its best before the busy season. A little prevention goes a long way in reducing costly downtime. Make sure machines are property greasedLubricate your machine according to manufacturers recommendations. By keeping your machine properly lubricated you reduce premature wear and increase fuel efficiency. […]
Repairs with Operator Training
Operator error is the most common cause of equipment repairs. Proper operator training is essential to avoid damage caused by negligence and oversight. Conduct daily walk around inspections It is essential that operators perform daily walk around inspections for any equipment that is used on a jobsite. A careful inspection will allow small issues to […]
Loader Backhoe Operation
Loader backhoe use can be difficult for both new operators, andthe most experienced ones. Follow our best practices for safe operation Preliminary Checkpoints Prework checklist Walk around the machine and verify that all attachments are securely mounted and that all external functions, such as the loading bucket or excavator arm, are operating properly. Inside the […]
Heavy Equipment Fuel Usage
How to Avoid Fuel Contamination From Dirt and Dust Dirt and dust cause more than 85% of all failures in fuel systems and can reduce engine life by 50%. Even tiny amounts of dirt and dust in your machine’s fuel system can obstruct to the engine’s normal processes. Newer engines are even more susceptible to […]