Workers can be injured getting on and off equipment when they lose their footing or the equipment is wet or oily. Injuries range from sprains, cuts, and bruises to fractures and even death, and a few habits prevent most of them.
What Is the Three Points of Contact Rule?
Always keep three points of contact with the equipment, meaning two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand, and maintain that contact until you are fully seated or on the ground.
What Should You Do Before and While Climbing?
Inspect first, face the machine, and keep your hands free.
- Inspect steps, handholds, and platforms for mud, grease, or damage, and clean or repair them before use
- Make sure grab handles are secure
- Always face the machine when getting on or off, and never jump off, but use the steps and handholds
- Keep both hands free to climb, using a tool belt or handing tools up after you are safely seated
How Do You Park Safely Before Dismounting?
Secure the machine before you step down.
- Lower all attachments to the ground
- Engage the parking brake
- Turn off the engine before getting off
- Watch for uneven ground, obstacles, or other moving equipment when stepping down, and use extra caution in wet or icy conditions
Most injuries happen when operators hurry or jump down, so taking a few extra seconds to mount and dismount correctly keeps you safe.
