• oversized fittings
• positive locking attachments
• safety latches on all hooks
• correct lifting angles on chains or cable bridles
• properly inspected nylon slings
• abrasion and cut protection on sharp edges and masonry
• spreader beams to provide correct lifting geometry

Keep all people well clear of a load being lifted or handled. Either get the guys out of the trench, or send them to a safe distance when the pipe is being placed. Never lift a load over people.

A lot of serious accidents also occur when trying to use one machine to do multiple functions. Rough-terrain forklifts, skid steers and similar multi-use machines are versatile, but are often pushed beyond their limits for expediency. Operators need to understand that there are limitations that must be observed and safety is primary.

10. Lock-out/Tag-out
Most mechanics will tell you a horror story or two that illustrates why OSHA made the lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) rule. Any raised load (or object, such as the bucket or attachment) is subject to LOTO provisions.

All pinch points on a machine must be identified and protected (guarded) when possible. The minimum warning is a pictorial decal advising of the hazard. If a dump body has a safety "crutch," make sure it is functional and used.

Refueling, service personnel and mechanics need to use positive means to assure their safety while servicing or working on the machine, i.e., wheel chocks, steering wheel covers with LOTO Warning imprint and LOTO locks, tags and hardware configured to the machine.