Say this

  1. The swing zone is everywhere the bucket, arm and counterweight can reach as the machine turns. Mark it with barriers or cones and stay out of it.
  2. If you must go inside the swing zone, the operator must stop, ground the bucket and pull the hydraulic lock-out lever first (WorkSafe WA).
  3. Get eye contact and a clear signal from the operator before you approach. Agree the signals or use radios (WorkSafe WA).
  4. Never stand between the machine's back end and a wall, truck or stockpile. That is where people get crushed (US OSHA).
  5. Keep walking routes apart from machine routes. The WSH Council traffic guidelines say to keep pedestrians out of the path of vehicles and use barriers where needed (WSH Council).
  6. Do not use the excavator to lift loads unless it is set up and approved for lifting.
  7. Wear high-visibility clothing, so the operator sees you sooner.

Ask the crew

  1. Where is the swing zone for the excavator on site today?
  2. What three things must the operator do before you go inside it?
  3. Where should you never stand near an excavator?

Show them

  • Walk the barrier line around a working excavator and point out the counterweight.
  • Ask the operator to show the hydraulic lock-out lever in the cab.
  • Practise the signals for stop and all clear.

Sign-off

Site: ______________________   Date: ____________   Briefed by: ______________________

NameCompanySignature

Sources

  1. Mines Safety Bulletin No. 146: Contact with workers or equipment by excavators, WorkSafe Western Australia.
  2. Letter of interpretation: precautions to prevent entry into a swinging superstructure's radius, US OSHA.
  3. WSH Guidelines: Workplace Traffic Safety Management, WSH Council.

This is practical guidance, not legal advice. Laws and codes of practice change; always check the current official text and your site's own procedures.

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