NIOSH Issues New Toolbox Talk on Skid Steer Loader Safety

NIOSH has released a new toolbox talk focused on skid steer loader safety. The resource highlights the need for operators and workers near the machines to stay aware of injury risks and the work environment.

Identified Hazards

Dangers listed in the toolbox talk include falling off the machine and being pinned, crushed or struck by the loader. The publication notes these risks apply to both operators and people working nearby.

Toolbox Talk Contents

The NIOSH resource contains a real incident narrative, discussion prompts and safety tips aimed at injury prevention. According to Safety+Health Magazine, the material is intended for use in workplace training settings.

Specific Safety Recommendations

The toolbox talk advises always using and maintaining manufacturer-provided safety devices, including interlocked controls, backup alarms, seat belts, lift arm supports and rollover protective systems. Operators must run the loader only from the operator’s compartment and never from outside the machine.

Additional guidance states workers should not exit the loader while the engine is running or while lift arms are raised unless lift arm supports are in place. The talk recommends keeping other workers away from the work area during lifting operations. It also directs operators to load, unload and turn only on level ground when possible and to operate only on stable surfaces.

According to Safety+Health Magazine, these recommendations form the core of the new NIOSH toolbox talk. The publication is available through the Safety+Health Magazine website at https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/skid-steer-loader-safety-new-toolbox-talk-available/.