Introduction
This report investigates a fatal incident involving a 33-year-old Hispanic equipment operator who was killed when he slipped between the tracks and the body of the bulldozer he was operating.
Incident Summary
The operator was operating a Caterpillar D8H bulldozer on a hillside when he stopped to let a coworker off. He then noticed a jacket left in the cab and stood on the track to hand it to the coworker, but the tractor suddenly moved backward, causing the operator to lose his balance and fall beneath the tractor.
Recommendations
Three recommendations were made: (1) operators must secure hazardous energy by following all manufacturer recommended steps in parking, including setting the parking brake; (2) operators should not use alcohol or other impairing drugs prior to or while operating equipment; and (3) no passengers should be permitted to ride on mobile machinery, unless a properly equipped seat is provided.
Manual:
Download: Caterpillar D8H Bulldozer Operator Manual
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