An excavator operator was working alone to build the log foundation of a cabin. The excavator had no window glazing or guarding on the boom side and the front window was open. Logs were being lifted by cables attached to a hook on the excavator bucket. Ropes attached to each end of the log were run through the open front window where the operator could control them. When he leaned out the open boom side window to reposition a rope, he inadvertently moved the boom control lever. The boom dropped down, crushing his head between the lifting cylinder and the cab.

Only two years earlier, another excavator operator was crushed by the boom in a similar accident (see Hazard Alert 01-08, Excavator boom drops, killing operator).

Never use an excavator without a guard on the boom side window.

• Never operate equipment when a safeguard has been removed. The boom side window or guarding on an excavator protects the operator if the boom drops down.
• Do not sell or rent equipment that does not have the manufacturer's safeguards in place.
• Work with a co-worker if a procedure cannot safely be done alone.
• Have someone make regular checks on a worker working alone or in isolation.