Incident Investigation: Compactor Rollover Injures Operator | WorkSafeBC

Summary

A compactor operator suffered severe injuries when the machine rolled down a 52% grade embankment during construction work. Despite the manufacturer's warnings against using ride-on compactors near steep slopes, the supervisor directed the operator to compact the edge with the drum overhanging. Inadequate instruction and lack of rollover protective measures led to the incident. The video emphasizes the importance of proper equipment selection, site assessment, and safety precautions to prevent such accidents.

Takeaways

• 🚧 A compactor rolled down a 52 percent grade embankment, leading to serious injuries for the operator.
• ⚠️ The steep grade of 52 percent far exceeds the 10 percent threshold considered a significant rollover hazard.
• 🛠️ The wrong equipment was used; ride-on compactors are riskier than walk-behind types near steep slopes.
• 🚧 The operator was instructed to compact the edge with the drum overhanging the embankment, which was unsafe.
• 🔄 The operator attempted to reverse and stop the drum from sliding but was unsuccessful, leading to the compactor tipping over.
• 💺 The operator had the door latched open for visibility, which may have contributed to being thrown from the machine during the rollover.
• 🔐 A rollover protective structure and seat belt could have saved the operator's life, but the focus should be on preventing rollovers.
• 👷‍♂️ Inadequate instruction and supervision led to the operator being directed to work in a dangerous manner.
• 📋 Manufacturer’s instructions were ignored, which should guide the safe use of compactors, especially near steep slopes.
• 🔍 Before compacting, it is crucial to assess the site for rollover risks and take protective measures if necessary.
• 🛑 The right equipment selection for the task is essential to ensure worker safety and prevent such accidents.

Q & A

What was the primary incident that occurred in the construction site?

A compactor rolled down an embankment, seriously injuring the operator due to the steep grade and unsafe operation.

What is the significance of a 10 percent grade in construction safety?

Grades exceeding 10 percent are considered a significant rollover hazard for construction equipment.

What was the grade of the embankment adjacent to the road in this incident?

The grade adjacent to the road was 52 percent, which is far beyond the safe threshold for rollover risks.

What instruction did the supervisor give to the compactor operator that contributed to the accident?

The supervisor instructed the operator to compact the edge with part of the vibrating drum overhanging the embankment, which was unsafe.

Why did the operator have the door latched open while operating the compactor?

The operator had the door latched open to clearly see the embankment and the location of the left tire during operation.

What actions did the operator take when the drum started to slide over the embankment?

The operator stopped, turned off the vibratory function, and then moved forward in an attempt to correct the situation.

What type of compactor was used, and why was it inappropriate for the task?

A ride-on compactor was used, which is less safe than walk-behind types when compacting next to steep slopes due to the risk of rollover.

What alternative compactors are safer for use next to steep slopes?

Walk-behind compactors are safer for use next to steep slopes as they do not put operators at risk of rollover.

What additional safety measures could have been taken to prevent the rollover?

Having a rollover protective structure combined with using a seat belt could have saved the operator's life, but the focus should be on preventing a rollover in the first place.

What should be done before compacting to assess the site for rollover risks?

Before compacting, the site should be assessed for rollover risks, and if there are risks, steps should be taken to protect workers, including using the right equipment.

What was the role of instruction and supervision in the incident?

Instruction and supervision were inadequate, as the operator was instructed to operate the compactor in a dangerous way, contributing to the accident.