Safety First, Always

Equipment Safety Guidelines

Before Operating Any Equipment

During Operation

• Stay Alert: Maintain full attention on the task. No phone use while operating equipment
• Speed Control: Operate at safe speeds for conditions. Never exceed manufacturer recommendations
• Load Limits: Never exceed rated load capacity. Overloading causes instability and equipment failure
• Visibility: Ensure clear sightlines. Use spotters when backing up or in congested areas
• Bystander Safety: Maintain safe distance from pedestrians. Use horn to warn others
• Stable Ground: Operate only on stable, level ground. Avoid edges, slopes, and soft soil
• Emergency Stops: Know where emergency stops are located and how to use them

After Operation

• Park on level ground with parking brake engaged
• Lower all attachments to ground level
• Turn off engine and remove keys
• Complete post-operation checklist and log any issues
• Secure equipment against unauthorized use
• Clean equipment and remove debris

Operator Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Valid Operator License: Current license for equipment category (excavators, cranes, forklifts, etc.)
• Safety Training: Completed workplace safety and equipment-specific training courses
• Medical Fitness: Current medical certificate (for heavy equipment operators)
• Age Requirement: Minimum 21 years old for heavy equipment, 18 for light equipment
• Experience: Documented operational hours/experience for specialized equipment

Ongoing Requirements

• Annual safety refresher training
• Regular medical examinations (heavy equipment operators)
• License renewal and recertification as required
• Incident-free operation record

Site Safety & Hazard Awareness

Common Worksite Hazards

1. Overhead Power Lines: Maintain minimum 3-meter clearance. De-energize lines when possible
2. Underground Utilities: Locate and mark all buried utilities before excavation (water, gas, electric, sewer)
3. Unstable Ground: Test ground conditions. Avoid trenches, excavations, and embankments
4. Limited Visibility: Use spotters in congested areas. Install mirrors and cameras
5. Weather Conditions: Suspend operations in lightning, high winds, heavy rain, or fog
6. Pedestrians & Vehicles: Establish traffic control zones. Use barriers and signage
7. Confined Spaces: Never enter confined spaces without proper permits and equipment
8. Fire Hazards: Keep fire extinguishers accessible. No smoking near fuel or flammables

Insurance & Liability

Required Insurance Coverage

• Equipment Damage Insurance: Covers repair or replacement costs for rented equipment
• Third-Party Liability: Minimum KES 5 million coverage for property damage and bodily injury
• Public Liability Insurance: Protects against claims from third parties
• Worker's Compensation: Required if you have employees operating the equipment

Renter Responsibilities

• Maintain valid insurance throughout rental period
• Operate equipment within manufacturer specifications
• Report all incidents within 24 hours
• Allow equipment inspection before and after rental
• Cover deductibles for insured incidents
• Pay for damage caused by negligence or misuse

Incident & Emergency Procedures

Immediate Actions for Any Incident

1. Stop Operations: Immediately stop equipment and secure the scene
2. Assess Injuries: Check for injuries. Call emergency services (999 or 112) if needed
3. Provide First Aid: Administer first aid if trained and safe to do so
4. Secure the Scene: Prevent further harm. Cordon off area and post warnings
5. Notify Authorities: Report serious incidents to police and relevant authorities
6. Document Everything: Take photos, videos, and written notes of scene, equipment, injuries
7. Preserve Evidence: Do not move equipment or clean up until authorities approve
8. Report to Hammertime: Contact us within 2 hours via emergency hotline

What to Report

• All injuries, regardless of severity
• Equipment damage or malfunction
• Near-miss incidents
• Property damage
• Environmental spills or releases
• Safety hazards or unsafe conditions
• Unauthorized equipment use

Investigation & Follow-Up

All incidents are investigated to determine cause and prevent recurrence. Our safety team will:

• Interview involved parties and witnesses
• Inspect equipment and review maintenance records
• Analyze operational procedures and conditions
• Determine root cause and contributing factors
• Implement corrective actions and safety improvements
• Provide investigation report within 7 days

Maintenance & Inspections

Daily Equipment Checks (Renter Responsibility)

When to Stop Using Equipment

• Any fluid leaks (hydraulic, oil, coolant, fuel)
• Strange noises, vibrations, or smells
• Brake or steering problems
• Warning lights or alarms
• Damaged safety guards or shields
• Cracked or broken structural components
• Malfunctioning controls or instruments

Environmental Protection

Preventing Environmental Damage

• Spill Prevention: Use drip pans during fueling and maintenance. Store fuel and oils properly
• Spill Response: Have spill kits on site. Immediately contain and clean up any spills
• Soil Protection: Use mats under equipment on sensitive ground. Prevent soil compaction and erosion
• Water Protection: Maintain buffers from streams and wetlands. Prevent sediment runoff
• Waste Disposal: Properly dispose of used oils, filters, rags, and chemicals
• Noise Control: Respect noise ordinances. Use noise-reducing equipment when required
• Air Quality: Minimize dust. Minimize engine idling to reduce emissions