Grader Operations Safety Measures
Motor graders are powerful machines used to level and shape surfaces, commonly in road construction, grading, and maintenance work.
Grader Safety
Because graders operate in open areas, on slopes, and around other heavy equipment, operators must follow strict safety procedures to prevent rollovers, collisions, and injuries.
General Safety Practices
- Conduct a pre-operational inspection. Before starting the grader, inspect brakes, tires, lights, fluid levels, hydraulic systems, and blade controls. Make sure the machine is in good working condition.
- Wear required PPE. Operators must wear a seat belt, high-visibility clothing, and other required gear such as a hard hat and safety boots.
- Mount and dismount safely. Always use the three-point contact method when getting on or off the grader. Never jump from the machine.
Operation and Maneuvering
- Be aware of your surroundings. Always check the work area for obstacles, soft ground, steep slopes, power lines, and nearby workers or equipment before moving the grader.
- Use proper blade positioning. Keep the blade low during travel to improve stability. Adjust the blade slowly and only when the machine is stable.
- Operate at safe speeds. Avoid excessive speeds, especially when working on slopes, around curves, or near drop-offs.
- Drive in control zones with caution. In areas with limited space or pedestrian traffic, operate the grader slowly and use a spotter if visibility is restricted.
Slopes and Uneven Terrain
- Work up and down slopes—not across. To reduce the risk of tipping, operate the grader up or down slopes rather than sideways across them.
- Stabilize the machine. Use wheel lean and articulation features to improve balance and stability on uneven surfaces.
- Avoid sudden movements. Do not make sharp turns or abrupt stops on sloped or unstable ground.
Visibility and Communication
- Use mirrors and backup alarms. Always check your surroundings before reversing. Ensure backup alarms are functional and loud enough to warn others.
- Communicate with spotters and workers on site. Use radios or hand signals and maintain eye contact with ground personnel when working near others.
- Operate with lights on in low visibility. Use headlights, warning beacons, and reflective markings when working in fog, dusk, or nighttime conditions.
Parking and Shutdown
- Park on level ground. If possible, stop the grader on a flat surface. Lower the blade fully to the ground before exiting the cab.
- Engage the parking brake. Set the parking brake and turn off the engine before dismounting.
- Remove the key. Always remove the key to prevent unauthorized use or movement of the grader.
Grader Operations Safety Checklist
Use this checklist before and during grader operation to ensure safe working conditions and procedures are being followed.
| Check (✓) | Safety Measure |
|---|---|
| Conduct a pre-operational inspection of all systems and controls | |
| Wear required PPE including seat belt and high-visibility clothing | |
| Use three-point contact when mounting or dismounting | |
| Check area for hazards like slopes, workers, and soft ground before moving | |
| Use proper blade position and keep blade low during travel | |
| Operate at safe speeds and avoid sharp turns | |
| Drive straight up or down slopes; avoid driving across them | |
| Use wheel lean and articulation features for added stability on uneven ground | |
| Ensure mirrors and backup alarms are working | |
| Communicate with spotters and ground personnel when needed | |
| Park on level ground, lower the blade, and set the parking brake | |
| Remove the key when machine is unattended |
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-10. Before moving the grader in a tight work zone, what action best applies safe operating procedures?
You forgot to answer the question!