OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewFocus Four HazardsHard
A worker is operating a compact excavator in a confined work area. What is the most effective way to prevent 'struck-by' incidents with personnel working near the excavator's swing radius?
- ABarricade the swing radius and prohibit personnel entry during operation.
- BEnsure the operator maintains constant visual contact with all personnel.
- CRequire all personnel to wear high-visibility vests.
- DInstall flashing lights on the excavator to warn personnel.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Barricade the swing radius and prohibit personnel entry during operation.
Barricading the swing radius and prohibiting entry is an engineering control that physically separates workers from the hazard, making it the most effective way to prevent 'struck-by' incidents in this scenario. Visual contact, lights, and vests are important but rely on human vigilance and do not provide physical separation.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Relying solely on operator vigilance is a less effective administrative control and prone to human error.
- C. High-visibility vests improve visibility (administrative control) but do not prevent workers from entering the hazardous swing radius.
- D. Flashing lights are a warning, which is an administrative control, less effective than physical separation.
Heavy Equipment Swing Radius
The area within the swing radius of heavy equipment must be barricaded to prevent 'struck-by' incidents.
- Engineering control is the most effective.
- Protects workers from unexpected equipment movement.
- Applies to excavators, cranes, backhoes, etc.
Memory trick: Swing zones are danger zones, so barricade the bones!