We are all aware that using seat belts when driving or operating heavy machinery can save lives. No matter how big or fast your machine is, you should never forget to take this safety precaution. How safe are the seat belts on your equipment, though?
- You should include checking the belt inside the cab every day in your walkaround routines. The seat belt looks frayed. The buckle is it broken? These things and more could endanger you.
- When operating a machine, the operator must always be wearing a seatbelt. However, a worn-out or otherwise broken seat belt does not provide enough security. To ensure that they are functioning safely, seat belts need to undergo routine inspections.
- Look up the seat belt's "Date of Manufacture" to see when it was made. The belt needs to be replaced every five years. (Most belts contain a tag with this information.) Best safety guidelines include replacing any belts that appear worn or are older than three years after the initial belt replacement.
- Check the seat belt webbing for cuts, especially where the buckle and end attachment hardware are located. At least three inches of the webbing should be wide and flexible. The seat belt may break and injure someone if the webbing is damaged or worn.
- It is necessary to check the end attachment hardware for corrosion and cracks. A torque of 50 must be applied to the eyebolt(s) that secure the belt to the machine frame. The eyebolt(s) must be positioned in such a way that the belt cannot catch on them. Make sure the seat belt was properly installed before inspecting the end attachment hardware.
- Examine the anti-creep gadget. This plastic clip, which is attached to the webbing, makes sure the belt won't budge while in use. This clip won't hold the belt properly adjusted if it is worn or fractured. The anti-creep device cannot be repaired; if it malfunctions, a new belt must be inserted.
Taking this few steps would let you know how safe your seatbelts are, or needs to be replaced.
