Tracked Carrier Safety

Tracked carriers transport materials across soft, steep, or restricted-access terrain on construction sites.
They are commonly used on pipeline projects, utility installations, and sites with poor ground conditions.
Tracked carriers have a low centre of gravity but can still overturn on steep cross-slopes.
The tipping body or platform can trap hands and fingers during loading and unloading operations.
Operators must hold a valid CPCS or NPORS card for the specific tracked carrier category.
Tracked carriers create less ground damage than wheeled vehicles but still require route planning.
Visibility from the operator position varies — some models have restricted rear and side views.
Loading must be distributed evenly across the carrier to maintain stability during transit.
Speed must be reduced on slopes, around bends, and when traversing uneven or waterlogged ground.
Pre-use checks must cover tracks, hydraulics, tipping mechanism, lights, and safety devices.

Overturning	Tracked carriers overturn on slopes and cross-falls, especially when loaded unevenly or travelling too fast.
Trapping injuries	The tipping body and track mechanism create crushing and trapping hazards during loading and maintenance.
Soft ground hazards	Operating in the soft terrain that tracks are designed for brings bogging, sinking, and instability risks.

Do

Don't

Hold a valid CPCS or NPORS card for the tracked carrier category before operating
Complete a pre-use check covering tracks, hydraulics, tipping body, and safety devices
Distribute loads evenly across the carrier platform to maintain stability
Reduce speed on slopes, cross-falls, bends, and soft or uneven ground
Plan routes to avoid steep cross-slopes and areas prone to bogging
Wear a seatbelt where fitted and keep hands clear of the tipping mechanism
Use a banksman where rear or side visibility is restricted by the load or terrain
Keep pedestrians clear of the tracked carrier during all movements and tipping
Lower the tipping body fully before travelling across uneven terrain
Report any track, hydraulic, or safety device defects before operating the machine

DON'T overload the carrier beyond its rated payload capacity
DON'T travel across steep cross-slopes that exceed the machine's rated limit
DON'T tip the load while the carrier is on a slope unless specifically designed for it
DON'T carry passengers on the carrier platform or body under any circumstances
DON'T operate with damaged tracks that could derail during transit
DON'T reach into the tipping mechanism while the body is raised or moving
DON'T drive at speed over rough ground — maintain a pace suited to conditions
DON'T leave the carrier unattended with the body raised or the engine running
DON'T operate near pedestrians without a banksman and clear exclusion zones
DON'T assume tracked carriers cannot overturn — they can, especially when loaded

See also: Plant Pre-Use Inspections | Plant and Pedestrian Segregation

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