Excavator

The Excavator Safe Operating Procedure (SOP) outlines step-by-step processes for safe and efficient operation of excavators.

It covers the hazards (noise, overhead and underground services, machine roll-over, fluid under pressure, fire and explosion, falling objects), the PPE to wear, machine licensing for public roads, equipment clearance distances, operator training and competency, and maintenance under lockout/tagout.

The operation steps run from pre-start checks and safe mounting through start-up, stopping, driving on slopes, connecting attachments and shutting down. A hazard checklist for powered mobile machinery, with Y, N and NA for each item, helps confirm every safety measure is in place before work starts.