Working with heavy machinery is no small feat. These machines are powerful and need careful handling. Operating them requires skill, precision, and a strong focus on safety. Even a small mistake can lead to accidents, resulting in injuries, damage, or costly downtime. As one of the leading mechanical engineering firms in Kenya, we share a list of safety precautions for mechanical engineers working with heavy machinery:
1. Understanding the Machinery
Before operating or maintaining any heavy machinery, engineers must have a thorough understanding of the equipment. This includes:
- Reading and comprehending the manufacturer’s manual and operational guidelines.
- Familiarising themselves with all controls, warning signs, and emergency shutdown procedures.
- Understanding the limitations and load capacities of the machinery to prevent overloading.
Knowledge of the equipment’s functionality helps mechanical engineers anticipate risks, identify faults early, and avoid errors that can result in accidents.
2. Conducting Pre-operation Inspections
Regular pre-operation inspections are crucial for identifying potential issues before they escalate. Before starting any machinery, engineers should:
- Check for visible damages or leaks in hydraulic systems, fuel lines, and electrical connections.
- Inspect tyres, tracks, or any other components that may wear out.
- Ensure all safety devices, such as alarms, interlocks, and emergency stops, are functioning properly.
- Confirm that the brakes, steering, and controls are in good working condition.
Conducting thorough checks reduces the likelihood of equipment failures that could lead to accidents.
3. Wearing Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE is the first line of defence against hazards in the workplace. Mechanical engineers must wear the appropriate PPE, which includes:
- Hard hats to protect against head injuries from falling objects.
- Steel-toed safety boots to guard feet against heavy objects or crushing.
- Safety goggles or face shields to prevent eye injuries from debris or sparks.
- High-visibility vests to ensure visibility, especially in busy construction or industrial sites.
- Hearing protection, such as earmuffs or earplugs, to mitigate noise exposure from loud machinery.
- Gloves designed for specific tasks to prevent hand injuries.
- Respirators or dust masks when working in dusty or fume-filled environments.
Employers should provide high-quality PPE and ensure workers understand its proper usage.
4. Adhering to Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures
LOTO procedure is critical for preventing unexpected startup of machinery during maintenance or repair. Engineers should:
- Shut down the equipment completely and isolate it from its energy source.
- Use lockout devices to secure the energy-isolating points (electrical switches, valves, etc.).
- Attach clearly labelled tags to indicate that the machinery is under maintenance.
- Verify that all residual energy has been discharged before starting any work.
Strict adherence to LOTO protocols ensures the safety of workers performing servicing or repairs.
5. Training and Certification
Proper training is a key aspect of ensuring safety in heavy machinery operations. Mechanical engineers in Kenya and other workers must:
- Receive formal training on equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Undergo refresher courses to stay updated with the latest safety protocols and technologies.
- Obtain necessary certifications to operate specific machinery, such as cranes, excavators, or forklifts.
Employers should prioritise hands-on training programmes and ensure compliance with occupational safety standards.
In Kenya, workplace safety is regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007 (OSHA) and enforced by the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS). Mechanical engineers must:
- Comply with all safety guidelines outlined in the OSHA, which requires employers to provide safe work environments.
- Undergo risk assessments for heavy machinery operations as mandated by law.
- Participate in safety audits to ensure compliance with statutory safety requirements.
- Report accidents or unsafe conditions to relevant authorities as required by Kenyan labour laws.
At Burhani Engineers Ltd, we are committed to ensuring safety on the job. We prioritise rigorous safety training, regular equipment inspections, and adherence to best practices to protect our team and maintain operational excellence. Our goal is to create a work environment where safety is second nature, reducing risks and promoting efficiency across all projects. We recently held a training session to address the challenges and risks of working at heights and scaffold erection. The session covered both theory and practical exercises, helping participants learn how to work safely and handle real-world situations. It was customised to meet the team’s needs, ensuring they could identify hazards and take steps to reduce risks with confidence.