Why This Matters
Caught-in/between hazards are one of construction's "Fatal Four" leading causes of death. Crushing injuries from equipment, materials, and cave-ins demand our attention and precautions.
Rotating Equipment
Ungaurded gears, rollers, shafts, and augers can catch you. Never reach into moving equipment; machine guarding is required to keep you safe.
Clothing & Jewelry Hazards
Loose clothing, long hair, necklaces, and rings can catch in machinery. Tie back hair, remove jewelry, and wear fitted clothing to protect yourself.
Trench Cave-Ins
Soil collapse is a caught-in hazard. Proper shoring or shielding is required at 5 feet. Never enter an unprotected trench.
Between Equipment & Fixed Objects
Pinch points between vehicles, walls, and barriers are dangerous. Maintain safe clearances and use spotters.
Unguarded Machinery
All moving parts must have guards. Never remove guards while equipment is running. Use Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) for maintenance.
Protecting Yourself
Stay alert to pinch points, maintain clearances, wear fitted clothing, and never bypass machine guards.
Key Takeaways
- Caught-in/between hazards are a major cause of crushing injuries.
- Machine guarding and personal awareness save lives.
- Proper trench safety prevents cave-ins.
- Spotters and clearances keep you safe around equipment.
- Never remove guards except during approved maintenance procedures.