Avoiding Struck-By Hazards

According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the second highest cause of death in the construction field is workers being struck by objects.

Many workers recognize struck-by hazards during roadwork, but statistics show most struck-by accidents occur on construction sites.

Heavy equipment is involved in around 75% of struck-by fatal injuries, so safe operation and clear site procedures are essential.

Equipment operators who don't follow proper safety protocols not only put themselves at risk but also endanger workers on the ground through swinging equipment, overturned vehicles, or pinning incidents. For businesses using heavy machines, consider Construction and Mining Machinery Insurance to review coverage options.

OSHA procedures for equipment operators

1. All vehicles should be checked each shift to ensure accessories and parts are in safe operating order.
2. Unless a vehicle has a reverse alarm or the driver has a worker to signal them, vehicles with an obstructed rear view should never be driven in reverse.
3. OSHA-standard seat belts should be worn unless the equipment is stand-only or does not have a rollover protective structure.
4. Operators of lifting and dumping devices should ensure that they and all other workers are clear of the area before lifting or dumping.
5. Vehicles and equipment should only be operated on maintained and safely constructed grades and roadways.
6. Parked vehicles and equipment should have the parking brake set. If parked on an incline, the wheels should also be chocked.
7. If not in use, bulldozer and scraper blades, dump bodies, end-loader buckets, and other overhead equipment should be lowered or blocked, with the controls in a neutral position.
8. All vehicles should have adequate safety devices, such as functioning brakes.
9. There should be a cab shield or canopy on any vehicle loaded by a power shovel, loader, crane, or similar equipment.
10. The load and lift capacity of a vehicle should never be exceeded.
11. Any construction taking place near a public roadway should have traffic signs, a flagging system, and barricades.
12. Workers must wear warning clothing, such as orange or red vests, to ensure they're clearly visible; warning clothing must be reflective if working at night.

Operators of boom trucks and other specialized equipment should follow manufacturer guidance and site protocols; employers may also explore Boom Truck Dealership Insurance and Risk Management for industry-specific risk options.

Protecting workers from falling and flying objects

1. The first line of head protection is wearing a hardhat.
2. Workers in areas where tools or machines could produce flying particles should wear shields, safety goggles, or safety glasses.
3. Materials should be stacked so they don't collapse, slide, or fall.
4. Scaffolding areas should feature toe boards, guardrails, screens, debris nets, canopies, or platforms to prevent or catch falling objects, and tools and materials should be secured.
5. Hazard areas should have warning signs and be barricaded.
6. Protective guards on tools, such as lathes and saws, should be inspected for good working condition before use.
7. Never use a power-actuated tool unless trained to do so.
8. Avoid working under areas where loads are being moved when possible.
9. The lift capacity of hoists and cranes should not be exceeded.
10. All components of a hoist and crane, such as wire rope, hooks, and chains, should be inspected and in good condition before use.

Secure storage and proper equipment guards reduce the risk of objects being propelled or dropping onto workers. For protection related to vehicle-mounted equipment and bodies, consider reviewing Truck Bodies Insurance options.

If you need help assessing coverage or site risk, talk to an agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a "struck-by" hazard?

A struck-by hazard is any situation where a worker is hit by a moving object, such as a vehicle, falling material, or a flying tool.

When should hardhats be worn?

Hardhats should be worn in any area where there is a risk of head injury from falling or flying objects, or where overhead work is occurring.

How often should lifting equipment be inspected?

Lifting equipment and hoist components should be inspected before use each shift and more thoroughly according to manufacturer and employer schedules.

Are reverse alarms required on all vehicles?

Vehicles with obstructed rear views should have a reverse alarm or a designated signaler when reversing to protect nearby workers.