TOPIC 2 - Highly Commended - 202441
To refuel our excavator meant having to gain access to the higher parts of the machine which could be quite tricky, especially whilst carrying the HVO gun, the hose and keeping 3 points of contact. There would be potential for the operator to lose their footing or fall from height. An additional risk was potentially causing a spill should they fall and activate the nozzle, instigating a risk of fire as the fuel could strike hot parts of the machine.
The idea of building a platform allowing the operator to stand on to refuel was devised but a concern was raised that manoeuvring the large excavator close enough to the platform without striking it was difficult, as the fuel filler cap is on the blind side of the machine. It was then proposed to fit a sliding platform that could be pushed out to meet the machine once it was parked and isolated.
When the platform was extended side protection chains was proposed, as these would extend out as the platform was extended and would prevent the operator from falling. In addition a holder for the nozzle was fitted so the operator could maintain three points of contact, retrieving the nozzle once they were safely on the platform.
Please see additional pdf for details of the design process
Benefits
- The hazard of falling from height has been reduced significantly for the operator, as they can now safely access the platform for refuelling.
- The risk of an environmental spill and fire have been eliminated as the operator is no longer climbing the steps close to potential hot parts.
- This platform has shown the workforce that potential hazards and unsafe practices can be eliminated with a simple idea. It also shows that ideas can be further improved to reach a satisfactory conclusion.