Safe Operating Procedure

Rammer

The instructions recommended within this document apply to normal risk conditions. If the Rammer
is to be operated in a dangerous or hostile environment, the user/client is responsible for
conducting an appropriate risk analysis and applying suitable controls to mitigate those additional
risks.
This instruction should be read in conjunction with the Risk Assessment.

GENERAL SAFETY
• Wear safety footwear, safety gloves, hearing protection, eye protection and Hi-Vis jacket)
• The rammer can only be operated if it is a safe and sound operating condition and by a
competent operator.
• Work sites on roads must be separated from normal traffic flow
• Rammer activity must remain in a barricaded area at all times unless traffic flow is stopped
to allow access in or out of the work area.
• Avoid operating on slopes in excess of 25 degrees to avoid tipping and failure of lubrication
system
• Ensure adequate fresh air is available if operating in an enclosed area
• Extreme care to be taken when operating near trenches or pits
• Operate from the side when travelling backwards to avoid crushing between handle and
obstacles
• Operator must never stand in the direction of any descent

TRANSPORT OF RAMMER
• Ensure unit is firmly tied down on transport vehicle without damaging engine and fittings
• If transporting over long distances, drain fuel tank before leaving

OPERATING CONDITIONS
• Check fuel and oil levels
• Check for fuel and oil leaks. DO NOT OPERATE UNIT IF LEAKS ARE FOUND
• Ensure no slip/trip hazards are present in work area
• Avoid standing on loose ground
• Turn on fuel valve
• Turn choke on
• Pull cord to start
• Switch off choke
• Operate hand throttle
• Bring revs to operating speed
• Move throttle to RUN position
• USE BOTH HANDS AT ALL TIMES
• NEVER LEAVE RAMMER RUNNING WHILE UNATTENDED

SHUT DOWN PROCEDURE

INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE

The above instructions must be followed at all times If any of the instructions are not
possible, contact the site supervisor for an assessment of any safety requirements

SOP-0046 Version 1.0

Likely Risk Who/ What What is the Rate What Risk Control Actions Needs to Be Taken? Time
Issue may be Level? (What needs to be considered so that the risks are identified and effectively Frame
harmed? (Rate risk as Low, controlled)
(Specific Persons) Medium or High)
Eye Damage Operator Severity of Risk (S)- 2 • Always wear safety glasses Every Hire
Load Noise ear Spectator Likelihood of Risk (L)- 2 • Always wear hearing protection
damage Overall Risk (S x L)= 4 • Warn bystanders prior to starting machine
MEDIUM

Foot Damage Operator Severity of Risk (S)- 2 • Wear appropriate footwear - steel cap boots Every Hire
Spectator Likelihood of Risk (L)- 2 • Make sure work area is clear of obstacles which may obstruct operation of plate
Overall Risk (S x L)= 4 • Be aware of bystanders and set up exclusion zone if necessary
MEDIUM • Nowhere your feet are in relation to the operation of the machine
Collision with Operator Severity of Risk (S)- 3 • Never leave unit running when unattended Every Hire
machine Spectator Likelihood of Risk (L)- 2 • Ensure work environment is well lit
Overall Risk (S x L)= 6 • Make sure work area is hazard free
MEDIUM
Trips, slips, fall Operator Severity of Risk (S)- 1 • Clear work area of potential obstacles prior to commencing work Every Hire
Spectator Likelihood of Risk (L)- 2 • Maintain proper footing at all times and avoid standing on uneven, rough, wet or
Overall Risk (S x L)= 2 slippery surfaces
LOW • Always keep both hands-on guide handle when using machine
• Never operate from dangerous areas such as ladders, walls etc
• If operating on roof ensure edge protection, safety lines and harnesses are used
Burns Operator Severity of Risk (S)- 2 • Always stop the unit prior to refueling Every Hire
Fire Spectator Likelihood of Risk (L)- 2 • Wear safety gloves to protect hands from hot parts
Explosions Overall Risk (S x L)= 4 • Allow machine time to cool down after use prior to moving
MEDIUM • Never smoke near machine
Exposure to Operator Severity of Risk (S)- 3 • Never use plate compactor in confined spaces Every Hire
Dangerous Spectator Likelihood of Risk (L)- 1 • Always ensure adequate ventilation prior to use
fumes Overall Risk (S x L)= 3
LOW
Calculation of Risk Evaluation
Severity of Risk (S) is judged by evaluating the effects of the hazard if the risk occurs. This is evaluated as Minor = 1, Major = 2, Serious = 3
Risk Likelihood (L) - The likelihood of the harm occurring is evaluated on the basis of: Unlikely =1, Possible = 2, Likely = 3
Overall Risk is calculated by multiplying the figure for Severity (S) and Likelihood (L).
The overall risk figure calculated is related to the Risk Level of either Low: 1 to 3; Medium: 4 to 6 or High: 7 to 9
NB This is a generic risk assessment only. It is advisable to carry out a site-specific assessment prior to using this equipment.

RA-0046 Version 1.0