Safety Procedures & Hazard Prevention Flashcards

Which signal means 'Stop' in standard hand signal communication between an excavator operator and a ground guide?

Answer: One arm raised with closed fist

A raised arm with a closed fist is the standard ANSI/ASME hand signal for 'Stop all movement.'

What is the purpose of a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) before operating a mini excavator?

Answer: To systematically identify and mitigate hazards specific to the planned task

A JHA breaks the job into steps and identifies hazards at each step so controls can be implemented before work begins.

A mini excavator bucket strikes a buried electrical conduit. What is the operator's FIRST priority?

Answer: Shut down immediately and evacuate, then call emergency services

A struck electrical conduit may energize surrounding soil; immediate evacuation and emergency notification are the first priorities.

When trenching in an area with Type C soil, OSHA requires walls to be sloped at no steeper than:

Answer: 34 degrees (1.5H:1V)

Type C soil, the least stable, requires a 1.5H:1V slope (approximately 34 degrees from horizontal) per OSHA 1926 Appendix B.

Why should a mini excavator engine be shut off before refueling?

Answer: To prevent fuel ignition from engine heat or static electricity

A running engine generates heat and can create sparks; fuel vapors near ignition sources can cause fire or explosion.

Which condition should cause an operator to IMMEDIATELY suspend excavation work?

Answer: Visible tension cracks forming parallel to the trench edge

Tension cracks parallel to a trench edge are a warning sign of imminent cave-in and require immediate work stoppage.

What is the correct procedure if a fire breaks out in the engine compartment of a mini excavator during operation?

Answer: Shut down the engine, exit the machine, and use an extinguisher from a safe distance

Shutting down cuts fuel supply, and exiting first ensures operator safety before applying the extinguisher from a safe distance.