ForConstructionPros.com

Construction routinely ranks as one of the nation's most dangerous jobs. While manufacturers continually add safety features to their equipment, many safety measures fall onto operators and how they use and service the machines.

Although skid-steer loaders aren't necessarily any more dangerous to operate than other pieces of construction equipment, their versatility makes them one of the most frequently used machines on a jobsite. As such, there are safety issues you need to be aware of.

"You don't want safety to be something you worry about after an accident has happened," notes Jim Hughes, product manager, Case Construction Equipment. "You have to stress safety all the time. You have to make it a living, breathing part of your everyday business."

Emphasize training
Skid-steer loaders are often the first piece of equipment a contractor may buy, or the first machine a novice operator may run for a contractor. "Because of this, skid-steer operators can be some of the least experienced on a jobsite," says Hughes.

That makes training critical to promoting safe operation. Many manufacturers offer training programs, and some have expanded services that include online safety training through sites such as Caterpillar's Safety.Cat.com.