Excavators: Use of Safety Control Lever or Isolation Devices
A recent HSE Safety Notice (Bulletin Number ED02-2025, issued 08/25) highlighted the risk of individuals being struck by an excavator or its load where the safety control lever or isolation device is not used correctly by the operator.
Outline of the issue
Where people are present within the operating arc of an excavator or similar mobile plant, the safety control lever must be engaged, or alternative isolation measures applied, while the machine is at rest (tick-over). Research indicates that unintended plant movement can occur; however, correct use of a safety control lever or isolation device can prevent such incidents.
Inadvertent contact with joystick controls
During a lifting operation, a slinger was fatally crushed between a quick hitch and a fixed structure. The excavator operator leaned out of the cab to communicate with the slinger and inadvertently contacted the left-hand joystick, causing the excavator to slew. At the time, the safety control lever had not been applied to isolate the machine.
Isolation of plant
Operators should use the safety control lever or isolation device correctly. Duty holders should monitor the application of, and correct use of, the safety control device
Machine operators and personnel working around plant must understand the importance of machine isolation before approach. Operators must clearly communicate when it is safe for others to approach the plant.
Risk Assessment
Duty holders must ensure that suitable and sufficient risk assessments are in place for all work activities involving excavators used as lifting appliances.
Taking Action: Your Responsibilities
Duty holders must, so far as reasonably practicable, ensure the safety of persons in the working arc of slewing plant and also any load, with the proper planning, management and monitoring of work activities.
Employers and duty holders must ensure that machine operators, slingers, and other relevant personnel are competent to carry out their tasks. Competence includes appropriate training and assessment, as well as sufficient experience, knowledge, and capability to undertake their duties safely.
Further Guidance
Excavators: Use of safety control lever or isolation devices - HSE