6 Tips For Moving Construction Equipment Safely
Moving construction equipment is sometimes considered arduous, especially when it comes to ensuring the safety of the equipment and those carrying it. Because construction equipment falls under heavy hauls, it can be time-consuming and dangerous if not done correctly.
Such a shipment can sometimes be very complex to transport. Therefore, if you prefer in-house shipment, you must have skilled people and the right equipment to move the hauls. The other alternative is to hire heavy haul transport service providers. These companies specialize in transporting heavy equipment, from large industrial machinery to construction equipment.
Many risks are associated with moving large and heavy pieces of construction equipment, such as the potential for damage or injury. Therefore, those responsible need to take all necessary steps to ensure the safe and secure transport of the equipment. Fortunately, this article can give you six tips for moving construction equipment safely.
Hire Professional Help
Professional movers have the knowledge and experience to move large, heavy, and delicate items securely and effectively. They can also provide you with the necessary equipment and materials for the job, such as forklifts, cranes, and heavy-duty straps. In addition, they also provide insurance coverage for damage or injury and may even offer you the most cost-effective solution for your move.
When hiring professional help, find a reputable company specializing in moving construction equipment. Remember that not all companies that transport heavy hauls can transfer heavy machinery and equipment. It is, thereby, essential to find one that is experienced in moving cranes or excavators, backhoes, and graders, among others.
After identifying the company, inquire about the essential details about the firm, such as insurance coverage, the proposed project timeline, rates, and inclusions in service. Use the information to choose which company is the most cost-effective alternative.
Conduct A Risk Assessment
Before you begin the process, it’s crucial to inspect the machinery you wish to move to ensure that it’s in good working condition. Check that all mechanical parts, such as motors and hydraulics, are functioning correctly and that any safety features, such as brakes, are in proper working order. When done, check all electrical connections to ensure they are secure and functioning.
You must also lubricate all moving parts and check for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose, damaged, or missing parts. If any damage or issues are found during the inspection, they must be fixed before the equipment is transported to ensure that it’s safe to move around during and after the loading and offloading processes.
Prepare For Transport
Once you’ve inspected the equipment and made all the necessary repairs, you’ll need to prepare for transport. Scan the route that the equipment will take and check for potential hazards, such as narrow roads or low bridges, that could cause problems during the journey. Ensure the route is suitable for the size and weight of the equipment.
Ensure that you hire a company that can provide the right trailer that is rated to support the weight of the equipment. Similarly, load and securely attach the equipment using chains, straps, or cables that are suitable for moving heavy machinery. Using the correct type prevents the equipment from moving, shifting, or falling during transport.
You can also be thorough by having a spotter on board to help ensure the safe movement of construction equipment. The spotter typically stands outside the equipment and is responsible for alerting the operator to potential hazards, giving directions, and providing feedback about the equipment’s movements. This can prevent accidents, as operators can adjust the equipment’s movement if necessary.
Use The Right Equipment
Depending on the construction equipment you’re moving, you’ll need to ensure that you have the right equipment for the job. Consider these factors when deciding which type to use.
Weight
To ensure you choose the right moving equipment, you need to consider the weight of the construction equipment that needs to be moved. If you’re moving a heavy piece of machinery, use a heavy-duty forklift or crane to safely lift and move it from one location to another. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to determine the maximum weight capacity you can safely transport.
Size
You also need to consider the size of the construction equipment. If the equipment is too big for the dolly, forklift, or crane that you’re using, it can throw it off balance and potentially cause an accident. To avoid this, you should always measure the equipment before moving it.
If you’re moving smaller equipment, such as power tools, use the proper straps and a dolly’s wheeled platform across flat surfaces. Investing in a few additional tools, such as winches and ratchets, is also a good idea.
Evaluating the equipment’s properties will help you choose the right equipment for the job and prevent potential mishaps.
Follow Safety Guidelines
When moving construction equipment, it’s essential to follow all safety guidelines. Ensure everyone wears the proper safety gear, such as hard hats, protective eyewear, and steel-toed boots. Also, ensure that you follow all applicable laws and regulations when transporting the equipment, such as seat belts, speed limits, and weight restrictions.
When driving your truck or trailer, do it slowly and take special care when on winding turns or in bad weather. When turning corners, slow down and turn the equipment in a wide arc to reduce the risk of tipping. It’s also essential to take regular breaks to ensure you’re alert and well-rested.
Practice Clear Communication
The next tip for moving construction equipment safely is communication. Effective communication is critical in this process and should be coordinated carefully.
Everyone involved in the moving process, from the construction managers to the spotters, must always be on the same page. This means that everyone should be aware of the size and weight of the equipment, the route it will take, any potential hazards, and the protocols for safe operation.
It’s also vital that communications be clear and consistent. All instructions must be in the same language, and any questions or concerns must be addressed promptly. Communications must also be made through multiple channels, such as radio, telephone, and text messages, to ensure that everyone stays updated with the latest information.
Summary
Moving construction equipment safely is essential to the success of any construction project. To ensure the protection of everyone and everything on the job site, it’s crucial to understand the best practices for moving construction equipment. Following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your construction equipment arrives at its destination safely and on time.
Gabe Banks
Gabe Banks has been working side by side his grandfather and father in construction since he was 11. He truly enjoys building something from the ground up and believes in safety first, so he writes guest posts about safety in construction sites when he can. His hobbies are singing and playing the banjo during his free time.