01 - Machine 03 - Safety 24 - Risk Assessment 24 - Risk Assessment Loading/Unloading Area Introduction Is it level? Any slope of more than 2.5% (1 in 40) must be carefully considered. Is more than one direction of approach to the load possible? Approaching across the slope must be avoided, if possible. Is the ground solid? Will it support the weight of the machine when loaded? How rough is the ground? Are there any sharp projections which could cause damage, particularly to the tyres? Are there any obstacles or hazards in the area, for example, debris, excavations, manhole covers, power lines? Is the space sufficient for safe manoeuvring?
Are any other machines or persons likely to be in or to enter the area while operations are in progress? It is the responsibility of the competent people that plan the work and operate the machine to make a judgement about the safe use of the machine, they must take into account the specific application and conditions of use at the time. It is essential that a risk assessment of the work to be done is completed and that the operator obeys any safety precautions that the assessment identifies. If you are unsure of the suitability of the machine for a specific task, contact your JCB dealer who will be pleased to advise you.
The following considerations are intended as suggestions of some of the factors to be taken into account when a risk assessment is made. Other factors may need to be considered. The Route to be Travelled How solid is the ground, will it provide sufficient traction and braking? Soft ground will affect the stability of the machine and this must be taken into account. How steep are any slopes, up/down/across? A cross slope is particularly hazardous, is it possible to detour to avoid them? A good risk assessment depends on the training and experience of the operator. Do not put your life or the lives of others at risk.
Personnel Weather Are all persons who will take part in the operation sufficiently trained, experienced and competent? Are they fit and sufficiently rested? A sick or tired operator is a dangerous operator. Is supervision needed? Is the supervisor sufficiently trained and experienced? As well as the machine operator, are any assistants or lookouts needed? How windy is it? High wind will adversely affect the stability of a loaded machine, particularly if the load is bulky. Is it raining or is rain likely? The ground that was solid and smooth when dry will become uneven and slippery when wet, and it will not give the same conditions for traction, steering or braking.
The Machine Is it in good working order? Have any reported defects been corrected? Have the daily checks been carried out? Are the tyres still at the correct pressure and in good condition and is there sufficient fuel to complete the job (if applicable)? The Load How heavy is it? Is it within the capabilities of the machine? How bulky is it? The greater the surface area, the more affected it will be by wind speeds. Is it an awkward shape? How is the weight distributed? Uneven loads are more difficult to handle. Is there a possibility of the load shifting while being moved? 01 - 12 9813/6050-2 01 - 12