A front end loading shovel (FEL), entered a small water pit when the operator drove over a storm drain cover. This pit was situated along one edge of the yard and was adjoining a storm drain that connects to a nearby stream. The weight of the FEL caused the drain cover to collapse which in-turn caused the FEL to lean at a dangerous angle, presenting the potential of it tipping over.

An investigation established the following root causes;

• Limited all-round visibility – operator failed to see the drain cover under surface water
• Lack of adequate edge protection around water pit
• FEL fitted with standard vision mirrors only - wide angle convex mirrors should have been in stalled as well
• Contracted operator did not possess MPQC card or evidence of competencies concerning the operation of a FEL.

Following the incident on site, the FEL was turned off and the operator evacuated. The area was cordoned off to stop any entry and the machine was removed by a hired in heavy recovery truck. The driver was debriefed about the incident and completed a drugs and alcohol check.

The following recommendations will be actioned;

• Edge protection around water pit to be improved FEL to be fitted with wide angle convex mirrors as well as standard vision mirrors
• An All Round Vision Assessment will be completed.
• Remind operators to never enter flooded areas unless they know what is beneath the surface
• Checks to ensure that all operators have undergone the required training and possess recognised competencies such as MPQC.