Construction work is no easy job and offers limited safety, especially when operating an excavator on steep hills. The construction site’s terrain next to a slope is most likely uneven, with holes and steep, vertical edges. To ensure that the correct safety measures are taken, learn how to use your company’s construction equipment in situations that make it difficult to operate.
Have the Right Equipment
You cannot complete a specific job on a steep slope unless you have the correct construction equipment. Long-reach excavators are the best machines to use when working on hills. You want to use this type of equipment because the excavator can remain on the stable ground while the digging arm can reach out and down the slope.
Examine the Hill’s Condition
Before you begin breaking ground, examine the condition of the hill or slope. If the angle is more than 35 degrees or 70%, you should not be using an excavator. Unstable terrain also quickly becomes an issue when the weather does not permit good working conditions, or if there is loose debris alongside the hill.
Assume the Correct Positions
When you are driving back up the slope, the front attachments should be kept low to the ground to help with the center of gravity. The boom can be used to distribute the machine’s weight as well. In some cases, you might have to use the teeth on the bucket to help you from moving backward when you are going uphill.
Use Skilled Operators
Never stick a brand new employee to do one of the most challenging jobs on the construction site. If a worker is uncomfortable operating an excavator on a steep hill, do not push them to complete the job, and find someone else who is more confident in their skills. There is nothing wrong with being unable to complete the job yourself; teach the employees that are not aware of the safety measures that you need to take when building a construction site on a slope.
Working on steep hills for a construction site makes for dangerous working conditions, but you can keep your team safe by following the best tips. Safety should always be the first measure taken while working in areas of a construction zone. Stop operating the excavator if you ever feel unsafe, and talk with other workers and the construction company to develop a game plan for overcoming the obstacles that go with working on steep hills.
