Emergency Situations & Shutdown

Despite all precautions, emergencies can occur during side boom operations. Knowing how to respond quickly and correctly can prevent injuries and save lives.

All operators must know the emergency procedures specific to their worksite before starting operations.

🚨 Emergency Stop Procedures

Common Emergency Scenarios

Machine Instability / Tip-Over Warning

• Stop all boom and load movements immediately
• If possible, lower the load to the ground
• Do NOT jump from the cab – stay in the ROPS protected zone
• Brace yourself and hold on
• Alert others to stay clear

Hydraulic Failure

• If the boom drops, it should be controlled by the holding valves
• Use the emergency lowering procedure if available
• Clear the area beneath the load
• Do not attempt to repair under load
• Report and lockout the machine

Wire Rope Failure

• The load will fall – sound the alarm immediately
• Evacuate the drop zone
• Do not approach until the scene is secured
• Report and investigate

Fire

• Stop the engine immediately
• Evacuate the machine using the escape route
• Use the fire extinguisher if safe to do so
• Do NOT use water on hydraulic oil or electrical fires
• Alert others and call emergency services

Electrical Contact

• If the boom contacts power lines, STAY IN THE CAB
• Warn everyone to stay away – ground is energized
• Try to move the machine away from the contact (if possible)
• If you must escape, jump clear – do not step down
• Land with feet together and shuffle/hop away

Controlled Lowering

If the engine fails or hydraulic pressure is lost, some machines have anemergency lowering feature:

• Locate the emergency lowering valve or control
• Clear the area beneath the load
• Slowly release the valve to lower the boom
• The descent should be controlled by holding valves

After an Emergency

• Secure the scene – Prevent further harm
• First aid – Provide assistance to injured persons
• Report – Notify supervisor and emergency services
• Preserve evidence – Do not disturb the scene for investigation
• Lockout/tagout – Isolate the machine until inspected

✅ Emergency Preparedness