SUPPORT-FRONT 1741628 - Caterpillar

Controlling the Risks from Whole Body Vibration
Take the appropriate action for the identified risk. If the whole body vibration level is high, you may need to give higher priority to controlling the risk.If the whole body vibrationlevel is low, and no other risk factors are present, you probably need very little action.If actions are needed, the action needs to be assigned. Record these details in your risk assessment.Many actions are available in order to reduce the WBV levels.Actions for controlling risks could include the following:Train operators and instruct operators.
adjust the suspension seats in order to avoid the seat suspension "bottoming out" on rough ground.
adjust the seat position and controls correctly in order to provide good line of sight, adequate support and ease of reach for foot and hand controls.
adjust the vehicle speed in order to suit the ground conditions.
perform the following operations smoothly:
steer
brake
accelerate.
shift the gears.
operate attached equipment.
follow haul roads in order to avoid travelling over rough surfaces, uneven surfaces, or poor surfaces.Choose the proper equipment for the job:
the appropriate size, power and capacity for the work and the ground conditions
a suspension seat that meets "ISO 7096"
a suspension seat that gives good support to the back, buttocks, thighs, and feet
easy adjustment of the seat
controls that are easy to use
easy access to the cabMaintain the machinery and the work area:
make sure that paved surfaces or roadways are well maintained.
correctly maintain suspension systems, including the cab, tire pressures, and seat suspension.
make sure that the controls, the hydraulic system and linkages are well maintained.
if you are obtaining a replacement seat, replace the seat with the proper seat for the machine. Plan your schedules:
schedule the work in order to avoid long periods of exposure in a single day.
schedule breaks.Long Term Actions
After you complete the action in order to reduce whole body vibration levels, you can take long term action in order to reduce vibration at the source.Earthmoving equipment must be designed in order to minimize the vibration exposure.Manufacturers should provide you with vibration information for your equipment.Ask manufacturers or suppliers for the test information.Ask manufacturers or suppliers for advice about use and maintenance of the machines in order to minimize whole body vibration levels.Operator Training
Provide training to tell operators about WBV, and actions that can reduce the level of exposure.In particular, cover the importance of the following:
sitting and posture
adjust the seat for a good position.
adjust a suspension seat for the weight of the operator.
correct tire pressures
keeping speed low on uneven terrain
avoiding debris and potholes
vary patterns in order to reduce exposure.
report the operator discomfort as early as possible.
Use the right type and size of machine, equipment, and attachments.
Maintain machines according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Tire pressures
Brake and steering systems
Controls, hydraulic system and linkages
Keep the terrain in good condition.
Remove any large rocks or obstacles.
Fill any ditches and holes.
Provide machines and schedule time in order to maintain the conditions of the terrain.
Use a seat that meets "ISO 7096". Keep the seat maintained and adjusted.
Adjust the seat and suspension for the weight and the size of the operator.
Inspect