Worker Injured When ByPassing Safety Devices Hazard Alert

The type of skid steer loader involved was equipped with three safety devices:

• 17 kg (35 lbs) of pressure required in the seat to operate the arms and the bucket
• The seat belt has to be fastened to operate the arms and the bucket
• A safety bar has to be pulled down over the operator, once seated, to unlock the steering levers and foot pedals.

For safety reasons, the manufacturer recommends boarding the loader by backing into the seat, and stopping the engine before disembarking.

WorkSafeNB’s investigation revealed the following causes of the incident:

• The operator boarded a running machine.
• The operator entered head first and placed a hand on the seat, thereby creating enough pressure to disengage the first safety device.
• The seat belt fastened behind the seat disengaged the second safety device.
• The limit switch on the safety bar was not functioning, which prevented the third and last safety device from working properly.

Recommended Preventive Action

1. An employer must ensure that powered mobile equipment is maintained in safe working condition and must replace or repair any defective parts before the equipment is operated.[Paragraphs 229(1) (a)(b) Regulation 91-191]
2. An operator of powered mobile equipment must stop the engine when leaving it unattended.[Subsections 228(c)(v) Regulation 91-191]
3. The manufacturer’s specifications (recommendations) must be followed. [Subsection 235(1) Regulation 91-191]
4. Safety devices must never be altered [subsection 229.1 (1) Regulation 91-191] or bypassed.