Operating a mining shovel is a delicate task. It is important to apply specific safety techniques in order to avoid incidents and ensure continuous operation.
Below are some key safety precautions when operating a mining shovel include:
- Conduct thorough pre-start inspections of mechanical, electrical, ground-level, and operator station systems to ensure the shovel is in safe working condition.
- Always buckle the seatbelt and remain seated while operating the controls to minimize injury risk.
- Be aware of the surrounding environment: check highwalls, banks, and pit conditions for instability or hazards, and avoid operating near dangerous edges or overhangs.
- Maintain clear communication with nearby personnel and understand traffic patterns to avoid collisions.
- Use three points of contact when mounting or dismounting the shovel and only use designated steps and handholds.
- Never swing the bucket over workers, vehicles, or other machinery, and avoid dropping material from unsafe heights.
- Load trucks evenly to prevent overloading axles and reduce the risk of spillage.
- Follow emergency plans and be trained on evacuation procedures in case of incidents.
- Operators should be adequately trained and familiar with shovel controls, operational sequences (hoist, swing, crowd, propel motions), and dig cycle phases to operate smoothly and safely (infographic – Hydraulic Mining Shovel Safety,2024).
These precautions help prevent accidents, equipment damage, and downtime in mining operations, ensuring worker safety and operational efficiency.
Operating a mining shovel demands precision and vigilance. What is the single most critical pre-start safety check you believe operators must perform to prevent catastrophic failure or collision? Share your expertise!
Reference:
https://simformotion.com/wp-content/uploads/Infographic_HMS_Safety_Tips_sm.pdf
