Preventing Equipment Damage in Construction

The primary goal of safe equipment operation is to protect lives, and a secondary goal is to prevent property damage. Construction sites not only pose risks to workers but also to heavy equipment, which can be costly to repair or replace. Every equipment damage incident not only results in financial loss but also increases the risk of injury for operators and nearby workers.

Common Types of Heavy Equipment Damage

• Broken windshields/windows
• Damaged tires
• Leaking or damaged hoses and lines
• Bent or broken tailgates
• Dents, dings, and structural damage

Primary Causes of Equipment Damage

While normal wear and tear occurs over time, most equipment damage incidents are preventable. Many occur due to improper operation, lack of planning, or attempting to solve a problem without proper assistance.

Best Practices for Preventing Equipment Damage

1. Operate Equipment Within Its Limits

• Every piece of equipment is designed for specific tasks—pushing beyond its limits can lead to damage and injury.
• If you are not trained or comfortable with a task, stop and consult a supervisor before proceeding.

2. Think Before Acting

• Rushed decisions often lead to costly mistakes.
• Example: If a dump truck gets stuck with its bed tilted, forcing the bed down without a spotter or proper evaluation could break the lift mechanism. Instead, the operator should stop, assess the situation, and seek assistance before taking action.

3. Involve the Right Personnel

• If there is an issue with equipment or a work task, stop and get a supervisor or qualified personnel involved.
• Taking a few extra minutes to properly assess and resolve a situation can prevent expensive repairs and potential injuries.