10 tips for preventing caught-in and caught-between accidents

Published January 23, 2018

The National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA), in partnership with the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), issued tips Jan. 22 to help waste workers prevent what the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA ) refers to as caught-in/caught-between accidents. These accidents include those caused by collapsing equipment, equipment rollovers, and exposure to unguarded machinery.

Don’t Use Cell Phones: Stay focused to eliminate all distractions.
Have an Emergency Response Plan: Know what to do and who to call for help.
Be Familiar With Equipment: Make yourself familiar with the equipment you’re using to eliminate pinch and crush points.
Shut Down Equipment: Shut down equipment before doing any repairs or inspections.
Chock the Wheels: On equipment that could move or roll, be sure to chock the wheels.
Use Cylinder Safety Locks: On equipment that supports hydraulic cylinders, use cylinder safety locks to prevent the release of stored energy.
Inspect All Machine Guards: Inspect the guards to ensure they are in place and properly secured.
Leave an Escape Route: Leave an escape route to prevent being pinned between two objects.
Stay Clear of Equipment: Stay clear of equipment or stacked objects that block your view of the equipment operator.
Stop, Look & Wave: Be visible and make eye contact with approaching drivers, and wave at all drivers and operators to make sure they see you.