What are the essential safety rules for a heavy equipment operator?

Safety is paramount for any heavy equipment operator in Quebec:

Basic rules:

• Pre-operational inspection: Check daily tires/tracks, hydraulic hoses, brakes, lights, and audible alarms. Report any anomaly immediately
• Seat belt: Mandatory on all equipment with a protective frame (ROPS/FOPS)
• Safety zone: Maintain at least 3 meters distance between equipment and ground workers. Never lift a load over people
• Maximum slope: For an excavator, do not exceed 15° (27%) lateral slope. Always work facing the slope
• Excavations and trenches: Check for underground utilities (Info-Excavation) before any digging. Call 1-800-663-9228 (Info-Excavation) at least 3 business days before starting work

PPE: Hard hat, steel-toed boots, high-visibility vest, safety glasses, hearing protection. Mandatory at all times on the construction site.

Training: ASP Construction — Construction Site Safety training is mandatory to obtain the CCQ card.