OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewFocus Four HazardsMedium
A worker is operating a backhoe near an excavation. To prevent 'struck-by' incidents from the swinging bucket, what is the minimum distance that other employees are generally required to maintain from the operating range of the equipment?
- AThe length of the equipment's boom plus an additional 5 feet.
- B10 feet from any part of the equipment.
- CA safe distance established by the competent person, or outside the swing radius.
- DNo specific distance, as long as the operator is aware of their presence.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. A safe distance established by the competent person, or outside the swing radius.
OSHA standard 1926.651(e) requires that employees shall be kept away from the excavated area where they would be exposed to danger from moving soil or equipment. For equipment like a backhoe, this generally means staying outside the swing radius of the equipment, or a safe distance established by a competent person to prevent 'struck-by' incidents.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While related to equipment size, a specific formula like this isn't the general OSHA rule; it's more about the operational danger zone.
- B. 10 feet is a common general safety distance, but the specific 'swing radius' is more accurate for heavy equipment operation.
- D. Operator awareness alone is insufficient; a physical safety zone is required.
Heavy Equipment Swing Radius Safety
To prevent 'struck-by' hazards, employees must be kept clear of the swing radius (the area where the equipment's rotating superstructure or moving parts could strike them) of excavators, cranes, and other heavy equipment.
- The swing radius must be barricaded or guarded to prevent entry.
- A competent person is responsible for identifying hazards and establishing safe zones.
- Struck-by incidents are one of OSHA's 'Focus Four Hazards'.
Memory trick: Clear the Zone, Watch the Swing, Communicate Always.