Chipper/Shredder Safety – 9
Lesson 2
Objectives
1. Indicate features to be inspected
before operation.
2. Recognize safe operating
procedures.
3. Identify safe transportation and
traffic guidelines.
Pre-Start Inspection
Safety starts before the engine. Thoroughly inspect the chipper
before beginning work each shift. Use the checklist on the following
page as a guide. Alert your supervisor if you find anything wrong
during your pre-start inspection.
Machine Placement
Place the machine on a level surface that is not concrete, paved or
gravel. Operating on these surfaces can cause thrown material to
ricochet and injure or kill the operator or bystanders. Also keep
other workers from falling into the chipper/shredder by ensuring the
location of the machine is not directly in front of or below where
other employees are working.
Safety Decals
Ensure that all safety decals on the machine are legible. Replace
any that cannot be read. Contact the chipper’s manufacturer
to order new decals. Contact information can be found in the
operator’s manual.
Missing or Damaged Guards
Guards and shields protect you from moving parts. Check the
operator’s manual for the location of guards and safety shields.
Prepare for
Safe Operation
Summary of OSHA Accident Inspection 112887237
An employee was removing a tree when the tail section of the
rope to which he was attached became entangled in the chipper
located on the ground below. The employee fell approximately
fifty feet and died.
Position equipment away from other workers.
Accident Report
Employee Falls When Rope Becomes Caught in Chipper
Summary of OSHA Accident Inspection 110902368
An employee was operating a wood chipper without all guards
in place. He became caught in the rollers and was pulled through
the chipper and killed.
Never operate equipment without all guards in place.
Accident Report
Operator Pulled Into Chipper
