Comfort is probably not the first word that comes to mind when you think about construction machines. However, comfort and ergonomics are closely tied to safety, productivity, and efficiency on the job.
The Center for Construction Research and Training found that over 20% of nonfatal construction injuries were connected to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). From carpal tunnel to tendinitis and back pain, construction workers and machine operators are at risk of developing work-related injuries. The causes of these ailments can include awkward body postures, forceful effort, repetitive work, and vibration from tools.
Discomfort at work can impact an individual’s quality of life and workplace happiness, especially for machine operators who spend their days in their equipment. One way to ensure that workers’ physical needs are met is to integrate a prevention through design approach, preventing injuries and increasing ergonomics.
Gregory Poole Equipment Company understands the physical and mental demands of the construction site, so we stock high-quality Cat® equipment for operator comfort.
We are committed to creating cost-effective machines that work with the operator, providing comfort and ease-of-use during long days on-site. Caterpillar constantly innovates and updates equipment features to enhance these capabilities in every area of the machines.
The cabin is the operator’s office, and Cat cabins are designed with comfort in mind. Starting with the basics, these cabs include heating and air conditioning to ensure climate regulation regardless of weather or terrain. Cat Comfort seats boast eight adjustments to accommodate different heights and weights, lumbar support, and a back cushion. These seats can withstand over 10,000 hours of use. The cushions are waterproof, washable, and replaceable if they start to fray or wear.
The cabins are also equipped with an AM/FM Bluetooth radio, allowing operators to listen to their favorite music or the news while they work.
Construction operators are at risk of inhaling respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust. Even with small doses of inhalation, long-term effects like lung cancer, silicosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can occur.
Cat machines have air filters to protect from dust, odor, and other contaminants. Additionally, features like the air filtration service indicator will alert you when it’s time to change your filter. That way, whether you’re operating in an environment with a high or low dust level, you will only need to purchase replacement filters when necessary.
Ergonomics includes fitting a job to a person, not the other way around. If your workers have to twist and turn to reach important settings and hold uncomfortable positions for hours, this can impact their physical health and workplace efficiency. The performance of a repeated action can also create physical wear and tear if that function isn’t natural.
An ergonomic control system can prevent and lessen muscle strain during daily tasks.
Advancements like the Cat joystick increase comfort and productivity. A feature available for medium wheel loader models, the ergonomic joystick features thumbwheel shifting, automatic articulation angle, and an active force feedback system. Customize your joystick settings to work best for you, saving your preferences so the machine is ready for you the next time you step into it.
Visibility also impacts an operator’s performance. Without a steering column, the joystick feature increases the view from the cab. Some machines have a rear camera, allowing operators to see from all angles.
With high-resolution touchscreen monitors, operators can easily access all the machine’s settings. When the working lights are on, the touchscreen automatically functions in night mode to boost visibility and reduce distractions.
Construction sites, the weather, and the machines can cause quite a ruckus. With all of that noise, around 14% of construction workers have hearing difficulties, with 16% having impairments in both ears. In addition to implementing personal protective equipment (PPE), construction equipment can help workers avoid hearing loss.
Cat machines use rubber-isolated mounts to reduce engine and machine noise. An operator station with additional rubber mounts and suspension technology reduces the amount of noise and vibration inside the cab. This technology increases operator focus and minimizes discomfort, allowing individuals to stay sharp and focused on the task at hand.
Comfort and safety go together. Integrating technology into the equipment can increase worker safety and productivity while meeting client needs.
Operator fatigue can lead to fatal injuries, and it is difficult to diagnose these microsleep events. Using the Cat Driver Safety System (DSS), a Cat study found that one operator fell asleep 40 times within four hours of machine use. After enacting a Fatigue Intervention Plan (FIP), they found that fatigue events decreased by 94%.
DSS is a nonintrusive technology within the cabin. It alerts the operator when there are fatigue or distraction events through seat vibrations and auditory alarms. With this technology, you can perform a Fatigue and Distraction Risk Assessment to analyze the fatigue in your drivers’ daily performance. From there, Cat experts can suggest further plans to boost performance and decrease distracted equipment operation.
This assessment includes:
With all the advancements to create ergonomic, intuitive equipment, Cat machines are very comfortable. That’s why we offer high-quality, new Cat equipment for your use.
At Gregory Poole Equipment Company, we know how important it is to ensure that your machines perform well for your workers and your business. Our selection of Cat equipment is equipped with the ergonomic, comfortable features listed here, providing for the safety of your workers.
If you’re looking for a machine for your next project, contact us or check out our multiple locations across North Carolina. Our team is here to support your needs.