Mining or construction operations often necessitate heavy equipment that will help get the job done efficiently and safely. Many brands offer earthmoving machines with innovative features like all-around cameras and grade control systems that make these tasks simpler than ever before.
Only highly trained operatorss of heavy equipment should operate such machinery; hence the field of occupational medicine’s primary goal of improving right here at Bruce Johnson Construction employee safety for these employees.
Cranes
Cranes are among the most powerful pieces of machinery used on construction sites, capable of lifting massive loads with relative ease and transporting them over long distances, making them indispensable in the building of skyscrapers and tall structures. Cranes use various simple machines to accomplish this feat.
One of the simplest systems available today is a pulley system, which distributes force applied to a load across various sections of supporting cable in order to minimize energy delivered directly to it and protect it from snapping under too much strain.
Hoists are another essential element of cranes. This device enables the crane to lift objects via its hook and is operated from within the operator’s cabin with remote control station. Depending on its type, cabs may feature latticework or telescoping structures behind which are counterjib and counterweight systems to prevent it from tipping over during lifts.
Trenchers
Trenchers are designed for utility work such as installing pipes or cables and drainage, and drainage. Depending on the soil and terrain in which excavation takes place, trenchers may come equipped with different cutting elements depending on which trencher type best suits the job at hand. There are various types of trenchers such as wheel trenchers equipped with large wheels fitted with digging teeth; chain trenchers pulled by tractors that work like giant chainsaws; micro trenchers specifically made for narrow and shallow trenches such as those required for fiber optic and small cable installations in urban environments.
Selecting an ideal trencher can save time and money for any construction project, but it is crucial to remember that this heavy equipment can cause serious injury if used incorrectly. Before selecting any size trencher, it is recommended to survey the site first to assess which is necessary before consulting a professional about safety rules associated with such equipment.
Dozers
Dozers (also referred to as bulldozers) are heavy machinery designed to push massive quantities of soil or rock. Used in construction, mining and excavation projects for digging, leveling, backfilling and grading land projects. Dozers come in various sizes with numerous blades and attachments suitable for different job sites.
Some dozers feature tracks to distribute their weight more evenly and create a lower center of gravity, making them suitable for sloped and unstable surfaces. With extra wide swamp tracks fitted, they can even maneuver through muddy or swampy environments with ease.
Other dozers feature tires without tracks for increased maneuverability on paved surfaces. These types of dozers are commonly used in roadwork and surface preparation projects, and can even be equipped with rippers to break up rock, asphalt, and concrete structures. No matter which dozer type you opt for, all operators must first receive training from their employer before operating any heavy equipment.
Graders
Graders are among the most widely-used pieces of heavy construction machinery, often serving to prepare the ground before construction begins and for road surfacing projects. Their most distinguishing feature is an adjustable blade between their two front wheels – this feature can also help these machines perform multiple tasks efficiently. They come with various attachments available that enable additional tasks to be accomplished more easily.
Some graders feature a broom to clear dirt or debris off the ground surface, and V-plows attached in front for snow plowing tasks.
Most graders can be controlled using a steering wheel or joystick, with some models offering frame articulation for greater maneuverability in tight spaces. Their cab controls may feature up to 12 levers; it is important that operators closely monitor these machines as it’s easy to lose track of throttle usage during grading operations.
