What should be taking into account by the operator about safety when using a quick coupler?

To carry out the work involving quick couplers in a safe manner, the provisions of section 8.1 must be taken into account.

However, in order to avoid accidents and incidents, what the operator particularly should always bear in mind about health and safety, are the following guidelines:

1. All personnel will maintain a safe distance from the excavator when working.
2. All the people on-site must always comply with all instructions of the person in charge.
3. The person operating the quick coupler must be trained, competent, and authorised to use the specific quick coupler.
4. The operator will check the proper engagement of the quick coupler using the shake/pressure to the ground test and following the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. The equipment will always be handled according to the instructions for the safe operation of the coupler with the equipment.
6. Work equipment that wears out, ages or is exposed to other adverse effects that can lead to dangerous situations must undergo regular inspections and, if necessary, regular tests.
   It is important to follow the manufacturer’s specified intervals.
7. The operator will check the quick coupler daily at the start and end of each shift and record
   that the check has been carried out.
8. The operator will inspect the quick coupler weekly and record all findings.
9. Maintenance of the quick coupler must be carried out at recommended intervals
10. As long as work equipment is used, it must be maintained so that it meets current requirements. When there is a maintenance log for the work equipment, it must be kept up to
    date.
11. As soon as any part of the quick coupler is damaged or loses its function, it can be said that it no longer meets the requirements. The reason is that all functions must work for the manufacturer’s CE marking to apply.
12. Every time something unusual has happened that can negatively affect the safety of a work equipment, e.g. conversion, accident, various natural phenomena or long periods of downtime,
    special checks shall be made. It is important to investigate and check that nothing is damaged or has contributed to an event that has occurred.
13. The results of inspections must be documented, and an assessment made of what measures need to be taken.

Links:

• Table of contents of Guide about Couplers for demolition & recycling

Access the full guide here:

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