It’s important that the driver of a snow removal machine is properly trained and drives safely.
Snow removal can be a crucial part of getting a construction job done. However, snow presents its own unique hazards that all workers should be aware of. Here are some tips for handling large amounts of snow safely.
Know Your Equipment
Operators of snow removal equipment should be either trained or experienced at using the equipment. Drivers need to know how to drive in the snow in a way that won’t endanger other vehicles, others, or themselves. Driving in snow is a tricky business, and driving a large snowplow can be even trickier.
Perform Equipment Maintenance
It’s important to know how to properly care for your equipment to make it work at maximum capacity and last for as long as possible. If you’re plowing snow at night, your snow plow should be equipped with flashing lights or reflectors to make your presence known to other vehicles and avoid an accident. You should also make sure that regular maintenance is being performed on the plow, including changing fluids, tightening any loose bolts, and checking that all functions are working properly.
Play It Safe
As with doing any dangerous job, it’s important to make sure you are taking every precaution to keep yourself and others safe. Even the safest and most careful drivers can get into accidents when the roads are icy. Make sure that your equipment has a full tank of gas before beginning the job. You also want to check that there’s a fully-stocked first aid kit in your vehicle. This kit should include bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, and aspirin as well as flares, an ice scraper, extra hydraulic fluid, and other items you may need. You also want to make sure that you are wearing several loose, breathable layers for protection against the cold. If you are in the cold for an extended period of time and notice that you are shivering, feel dizzy, or are getting blisters, then immediately relocate to a warm area where you can warm yourself. Eating lots of carbs will also sustain your body in the cold, since your body burns extra carbs to keep itself warm in cold temperatures. Your health and safety is priority; make sure you are prepared to do a safe, quality job.
ABOUT RELIABLE CONTRACTING
Reliable is dedicated to delivering quality products, displaying professionalism within the firm, seeking new opportunities for expansion and profitability, and providing an environment for individual success. If you have a commercial or residential construction project you need taken care of, please contact Anne Arundel County’s largest site-work contractor today by calling 410-987-0313 or visiting our website. You can also follow Reliable Contracting on Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter!
Reliable Contracting Company serves the following and surrounding counties: Annapolis, Queen Anne’s, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Calvert, Caroline, Charles, Howard, Prince George, St. Mary’s, Talbot, and Washington D.C.