HSE issues warning on excavator isolation safety

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a safety notice highlighting the risks of unintended excavator movement if safety control levers or isolation devices are not used correctly.

The alert follows incidents where workers were struck by excavators or suspended loads due to machines not being properly isolated while at rest. In one case, a slinger was fatally crushed when an excavator slewed unexpectedly after the operator inadvertently made contact with a joystick. The machine’s safety control lever had not been applied.

HSE guidance states that whenever people are within the working arc of an excavator or similar plant, operators must apply the safety control lever or use another approved isolation method. Research has shown that unintended movements can and do occur, but correct use of isolation devices can prevent them.

Dutyholders are reminded of their responsibility to ensure the safety of workers around slewing plant and loads, so far as reasonably practicable. This includes proper planning, management and monitoring of lifting and excavation activities.

The HSE says employers and contractors should:

• ensure risk assessments cover the use of excavators as lifting appliances;
• monitor the correct use of isolation devices on site;
• ensure operators, slingers and others are trained, competent and experienced;
• establish clear communication protocols so workers only approach when machines are isolated and safe.

The safety notice references guidance under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, and the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.

The full notice can be read on the HSE website: Excavators: use of the safety control lever or isolation devices.