In modern construction, the safe operation of excavators, a crucial piece of equipment, is of paramount importance. Despite their powerful off-road capabilities and operational performance, excavators pose numerous potential hazards during actual operation. Any negligence can lead to severe accidents. Therefore, mastering and adhering to safety regulations for excavator operation not only enhances construction efficiency but also ensures the safety of operators.

This article will detail safety precautions for excavator operation from five aspects: downhill operation, traveling posture, driving on soft ground, blind spots, and working on trenches. This aims to help operators avoid common operational mistakes.

1. Holding the Door Frame When Going Downhill

Excavators are renowned for their strong off-road capabilities. Utilizing the cooperation of the tracks and working devices, excavators can easily climb steep slopes and descend. However, a frequently overlooked hazard exists: when descending a slope or trailer, the machine tilts forward. Many operators habitually push the left hand against the windshield or door frame while operating the excavator with the right hand. If the door is open and not locked, it may quickly close due to gravity, potentially trapping the operator's hand with serious consequences.

To avoid such accidents, ensure the excavator doors are locked whether they are open or closed during operation. Operators should avoid supporting the door frame to ensure safety.

2. Raising the Boom While Moving

Many novice or trainee operators mistakenly believe that raising the boom to the highest point, fully extending the arm, and facing the bucket upward provides better visibility while traveling, and even think it looks cool to walk while rotating. In fact, this is extremely dangerous. Raising the working device elevates the center of gravity, making the machine prone to tipping over on uneven ground.

3. Driving on Soft Ground

When working on soft ground such as swamps or riverbanks, use the bucket to test if the ground can support the excavator's weight first. Ignoring this step can lead to severe consequences. Despite the large ground contact area of excavator tracks, they can still get stuck in mud and become immobile. Such accidents can be avoided by observing the following points:

- Use the bucket to probe the ground first.

- Avoid staying in the same spot for extended periods.

- Try to travel in a straight line and minimize turns.

If the excavator gets stuck in mud, don't panic and don't attempt to climb out, as this will only make the situation worse. You can try the following methods to extricate the excavator:

(1) If the excavator isn't deeply stuck, dig out the middle of the tracks and try again.

(2) If it still doesn't work, test the mud depth. If it's shallow, dig out the mud in front to create a path and slowly approach firmer ground.

(3) If the mud is deep, rent some iron plates or roadbeds to lay horizontally under the tracks to help get unstuck.

4. Blind Spots

The excavator's cab is on the left side, and the middle boom obstructs the view, creating a large blind spot on the right side, especially at the rear. Many excavator accidents occur when the right rear corner hits or crushes people while rotating. Therefore, when working in less spacious areas, stay to the left, leaving more space on the right side.

Rearview mirrors on excavators are very fragile and often get knocked off during work or transport. Many operators think rearview mirrors are unimportant and don't replace them promptly. In fact, rearview mirrors, especially the right side mirror, are crucial. Accidents often result from a lack of safety awareness.

5. Working Over Trenches

When digging trenches, if the foreman tells you the front section height is incorrect and asks you to straddle the trench and re-dig, do not comply. Regardless of geological conditions, you can only back up half a track's distance; anything more is unsafe and poses a collapse risk. Foremen are more concerned with trench quality than your safety. A qualified operator should have independent thinking and safety awareness, which are basic professional ethics.

Safe operation is not just about following rules but also reflects a sense of responsibility and professional quality. As an excavator operator, you must have keen observation, good judgment, and solid technical skills to ensure smooth operation and safety for yourself and others. Following these principles significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents, contributing to a safe and efficient construction environment.