The Most Common Tools For Excavating
Excavating is a heavy duty job that requires the right equipment to get the job done. This is why a professional excavation company will invest in top-quality tools. Each tool can handle different types of digging tasks.
Spade
The spade is one of the most common tools used for excavating. It can be used to dig trenches and other deeper holes, as well as for edging lawns or lifting sod. In addition, the spade can be used to bury small weeds and mix in plant matter or compost. This can help soil to loosen and aerate, which in turn increases access for beneficial earth worms. The spade can also be used to divide plants that need it, such as trees that outgrow their space in your garden. This can be done by gently levering them away from the ground, without damaging their roots.
Shovel
A shovel is a simple tool that can be used to lift and dig soil. It can also be used to scoop and move large amounts of material, such as sand or gravel. Shovels are usually made from metal and feature a blade attached to a handle. The blade can be flat or pointed, depending on the type of soil being worked with. The handle of a shovel is usually connected to the blade by a screw or rivet. This can make it easier to replace the handle if it ever breaks down. A shovel may have a kickplate that allows you to put your foot on the upper edge of the blade and add pressure to dig deeper. This can be helpful if you’re working with heavy ground.
Pickaxe
When digging a trench it is important to have all of the appropriate tools on hand. Each tool is designed for a different purpose and works together to dig the trench. A shovel is used to shape the trench and scoop up loose dirt. A pickaxe can be used to soften the ground before you start digging, this is especially useful in cold weather when the top layer of soil is tougher to dig. The pointed side of a pickaxe is great for lodging under rocks or hard ground and prying them free, while the flat head is good for chopping through roots. A 60” bar is also handy for breaking up really hard dirt like caliche.
Mattock
A mattock is a tool that can be used to dig or break up soil. It combines an axe blade on one end with an adze (horizontal blade) on the other. It can be used on both hard and soft ground, as well as rocky terrain. It can be used for a variety of tasks, including digging trenches and cultivating soil in raised beds. To use a mattock, grasp the handle or shaft about halfway through the head and place the other hand at the base. Bend at the waist and flex your knees. You can then swing the mattock downward in an arc, making short chops under the weight of the tool. This helps save energy and reduces the risk of straining your back.
Machine Tools
When it comes to digging, there are a variety of tools available. These vary depending on the project and the materials that will be used. When digging in soft ground, a dragline is the best option. These machines have long booms, and a digging bucket is suspended on a cable that hangs from the top of the boom. They are a great choice for larger excavations such as port construction, pond and canal dredging, and pile driving. They can also be rented for small jobs that require only the use of heavy machinery. If you’re not sure which excavating equipment is right for your job, a professional provider will help you determine the best options.
As a plant and machinery operator, you must know how to safely operate a forklift. This is one of the most critical pieces of machinery you will be operating in this industry, and you have to be aware of all the necessary safety aspects. It’s the only standard approach that will be essential in minimizing some of the workplace injuries that have increased in recent times. Here are some essential tips how to operate a forklift.
1. Know the Forklift Class
The first thing you need to be aware of is that there are different types of forklifts, and they are classified according to their intended use. There are three broad categories: electric motor hand trucks, internal combustion engine trucks, and electric motor rider trucks. Each type of truck has its own set of safety requirements that must be adhered to. For example, an electric motor hand truck cannot be used on an incline.
2. Get Trained and Certified
You must receive the proper training before operating a forklift. Many employers will provide this training, but you can also take a certification course. Once you have been trained, make sure you are familiar with the forklift controls and how to use them properly. Remember, training and certification are not enough. You must also be able to demonstrate your proficiency in operating the forklift. This is the only way to provide optimum safety while operating this equipment.
3. Inspect the Forklift Daily
You should inspect the forklift every day before using it. This includes checking the brakes, steering, tires, hydraulics, and chains. Ensure that all safety devices are in working order and that there are no fluid leaks. If you notice any problems, report them to your supervisor immediately. You should avoid operating a forklift if it is not in good working condition, as this can put you and those around you at risk.
4. Wear the Proper Safety Gear
When operating a forklift, you need to wear the proper safety gear. This includes a hard hat, safety glasses, and gloves. You should also wear closed-toe shoes to avoid crushing your feet if something falls on them. In addition, you should be aware of your surroundings and ensure that there is no loose clothing or jewelry that can get caught in the machinery.
5. Follow the Proper Procedures
Specific procedures must be followed when operating a forklift. For example, you should always approach a load from the front and never try to lift something too heavy. In addition, you should keep your fingers and hands away from the chains and never stand under a load that is being lifted. These are just a few of the many safety procedures that you need to follow when operating a forklift.
Conclusion
Operating a forklift is a big responsibility, and you must take the necessary steps to do it safely. By following the tips above, you can help to create a safe work environment for yourself and those around you. Remember, workplace safety is everyone’s responsibility. Contact Ram Rent-All, Inc. for more information on forklift safety.
No matter what type of business you run, if you use a forklift in your day-to-day operations, you need to be aware of forklift best practices to protect your own safety and that of others nearby. When used incorrectly, a forklift can be one of the most significant hazards in a workplace.
Here’s a checklist of forklift safety tips to ensure employee safety and prevent hazards.
Wear the right clothing
First and foremost, forklift operators need to be dressed for the job. Always wear appropriate safety equipment when operating a forklift. This includes safety shoes, hard hats and a high-visibility jacket or vest. Tuck away loose-fitting clothing to make sure it doesn’t get caught in the forklift’s moving parts.
Inspect equipment daily
No discussion of forklift best practices is complete without a discussion of safety checks. Before every use, check the forklift with the shift supervisor, and be sure to log any problems you notice. If you spot any necessary repairs, don’t operate the forklift; instead, reach out to your local heavy equipment maintenance company to schedule repair. Daily inspections should include:
- Testing operating controls like the steering wheel, brakes, lights and horn
- Checking for damage to the mast and overhead guard
- Checking hydraulic, brake, engine, fuel and coolant fluid levels
- Checking for water, oil or radiator leaks
- Ensuring forks are in good condition
- Checking tires for adequate pressure
Always maintain full visibility
Operate a forklift as you would a car by maintaining full visibility whenever it’s in operation. When you’re moving a load, keep forks low to the ground to provide adequate forward visibility. In cases where the load restricts your front visibility, operate the forklift in reverse. You should always be looking in the direction of travel when the forklift is in motion, and use rearview mirrors to boost visibility.
Never overload the forklift
You should never carry a load that exceeds your forklift’s weight capacity. Carrying loads that are too heavy can easily cause the machine to tip. Double-check load capacities—they’re typically listed on the machine itself and in the owner’s manual.
Always wear a seat belt
No matter how far you’re hauling a load with a forklift, you should always wear a seat belt during operation. Overturned forklifts are an all-too-common cause of forklift accidents. Wearing a seat belt can keep operators from being crushed by the forklift’s overhead guard or roll cage.
Follow proper shutdown protocols
When you’re done using the forklift, park it safely by setting the parking brake, lowering the forks and setting all controls to neutral. Taking the time to park the machine safely reduces the risk of unintended movements. If you’re parking the forklift on a slope or incline, use wheel blocks to keep the machine secure.
Following the forklift safety tips listed above will protect you and employees in your facility from significant hazards. Remember that forklift safety starts with renting a forklift from a trusted supplier. For more information on forklift safety and maintenance, reach out to Ram Rent-All, Inc. today.
