Share the Ride to Safety

According to Martinelli, "Compactors tend to approach the paver-finisher too closely. This increases the likelihood that the compactor may strike the paver screed or one of the crew members operating on or near it."

He cites studies Volvo has conducted that show it isn't necessary to approach the paver closer than 50 ft. on a typical highway paving job. "Of course, if the paver stops because it has run out of asphalt, etc., the compactor will need to roll up close to the screed before the asphalt cools," he admits. "However, since the paving operation has stopped, there is no reason the paver crew members can't be cleared from the area before the compactor approaches."

Workers should be made aware of the job of the roller, be alert for sudden reversals and stay clear of the roller at all times. The roller operator should inspect the jobsite for potential holes and wet spots, and look for any overhead interference.

Seatbelts, if available, should be mandatory whenever the machine is in use. "Strictly enforce the usage of seatbelts on machines equipped with ROPS and seatbelts at all times the machine is operating," says Martinelli. "This means even on seemingly flat terrain.

"Rollovers and tipovers are potential hazards on ride-on compactors, just as they are on other types of earthmoving equipment, given the nature of the ground conditions on construction sites," he continues. "The likelihood of a serious injury is greatly reduced if the operator is wearing his/her seatbelt in the event of a rollover/tipover."