PLT/Specific Plant/TBT-PLT-019

Bulldozer Safety

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Bulldozer Safety

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-PLT-019  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • Bulldozers are tracked machines used for pushing earth, stripping topsoil, and spreading fill material.
  • They have very limited rear visibility; reversing is the most dangerous phase of bulldozer operation.
  • Bulldozers operating on slopes risk overturning sideways or sliding on wet and soft ground.
  • The blade obscures forward visibility at ground level, hiding workers and obstacles ahead.
  • Track throw from fast steering throws stones, mud, and debris at speed toward bystanders.
  • Bulldozers work near excavation edges, embankment slopes, and unstable fill where ground can give way.
  • A ROPS (roll-over protective structure) cab protects the operator but only if the seatbelt is worn.
  • Operators must hold CPCS or NPORS certification for the specific bulldozer category being operated.
  • PUWER 1998 requires daily pre-use inspections and regular maintenance of bulldozer controls and safety systems.
  • The noise and vibration from bulldozer operation affect both the operator and nearby ground workers.

Why?

Reversing deathsWorkers are killed by reversing bulldozers because the operator cannot see them behind the machine.
Overturn on slopesBulldozers operating across or along slopes overturn, crushing the operator if the seatbelt is not worn.
Ground collapseOperating near excavation edges and embankment crests collapses the ground under the tracks, tipping the machine.
Do Don't
  • Use a banksman when reversing in areas where workers are present.
  • Wear the seatbelt at all times inside the ROPS cab during operation.
  • Assess slope gradients before operating and stay within the safe limits.
  • Complete a thorough pre-use inspection before starting operations each shift.
  • Maintain a safe distance from excavation edges and embankment crests.
  • Ensure all ground workers are visible and clear before moving the machine.
  • Hold a current CPCS or NPORS card for the bulldozer category being operated.
  • Use mirrors and cameras to improve rearward visibility during reversing.
  • Sound the horn before starting, reversing, or changing direction of travel.
  • Keep the blade low when travelling to improve forward visibility and stability.
  • DON'T reverse without a banksman when workers are in the operating area.
  • DON'T operate a bulldozer without wearing the seatbelt inside the ROPS cab.
  • DON'T work across slopes steeper than the machine manufacturer's safe gradient.
  • DON'T push material over excavation edges while straddling the crest.
  • DON'T allow workers to walk behind or beside the bulldozer during operation.
  • DON'T carry passengers on the bulldozer; it is designed for the operator only.
  • DON'T operate with raised blade when travelling; it blocks visibility and raises stability.
  • DON'T leave the bulldozer running unattended with the blade raised.
  • DON'T ignore track tension, hydraulic leaks, or warning lights during pre-use checks.
  • DON'T allow unqualified persons to operate or move the bulldozer on site.

See also: Plant and Pedestrian Segregation | Reversing and Banksman Procedures
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