What should you inspect for before starting work with heavy equipment?

Inspecting for soft soil and underground utilities is critical before starting work with heavy equipment because these conditions can significantly impact the safety and stability of the operation. Soft soil may not have the structural integrity to support heavy loads, increasing the risk of equipment failure, tipping, or becoming stuck. Underground utilities pose a danger as they can be inadvertently damaged during excavation or movement of equipment, leading to hazardous situations such as gas leaks, electrical outages, or injury.

Awareness of these factors allows operators to take necessary precautions, such as reinforcing the ground or planning the operation to avoid utility lines, ensuring a safer working environment. Identifying these risks before beginning work contributes to overall site safety and effective equipment operation.