The Importance of Adequate Planning and Preparation
Transporting forestry equipment can be an extremely dangerous task, and it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved in moving large, heavy machinery. Adequate planning and preparation are essential to ensure that the transportation process goes smoothly and without any accidents or damage to the equipment.
Dangers of Transporting Forestry Equipment
When it comes to transporting heavy machinery such as logging trucks, skidders, or harvesters, there are several potential hazards, including unstable loads, improper securing of equipment, road conditions, weather factors, and lack of proper training or experience. Failure to address these dangers can result in dangerous consequences. To minimize risks and protect both workers and other drivers on the road, adequate planning and preparation are important.
Know the Route
One of the most critical steps in forestry equipment transportation is to assess and plan the route. This involves identifying potential obstacles such as railroads, low bridges, narrow roads, congested areas, and tight turns. The route chosen should try to avoid these obstacles and to ensure that the equipment can be transported safely and efficiently. In addition, it is important to ensure that the equipment is secured properly onto the transportation vehicle to avoid any damage during transit.
Use and Escort Vehicle
An escort vehicle is a vehicle that travels ahead of the lowboy and can play a key role in ensuring the safety of the transportation process by alerting other road users of the presence of the oversized load and advising the driver of any upcoming road hazards.
Check State Regulations
Transporting forestry equipment requires compliance with state regulations to ensure the safety of drivers, passengers, and other road users. Ensure the dimensions and weight of the forestry equipment comply with state laws, which often specify maximum height, length, and weight limits. In addition, equipment must be properly marked with warning flags or lights to ensure its visibility to other motorists. Drivers may be required to add additional amber lights to their transport truck and trailer.
Transporting Forestry Equipment with Over-Sized Tires
Transporting forestry equipment with oversized tires can be a challenging task. However, with the right equipment and planning, it can be done safely and efficiently. If your equipment has over-sized tires:
- Use flags on the front and back of the truck that are as wide as the equipment you are transporting.
- Consider applying temporary paint to the outside of the equipment tires to be visible to oncoming traffic.
- If the tires are oversized beyond safe transport, remove the tires if possible. If the tires are doubles, you must take one off.
We are here to help you run a safer operation. For more jobsite safety tips, contact your BITCO Risk Control Consultant. Click the button below to find an agent near you.
For information purposes only. BITCO's blog content does not address all potential circumstances and is not a substitute for business, safety, or legal consultation.
