Ensuring Excavator Safety Through Proper Isolation Procedures
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released a new Safety Notice addressing the isolation of excavators when idle or engaged in lifting operations. This alert follows recent incidents where operators or nearby workers were seriously injured — and in some cases fatally — due to unintended machine movements caused by incorrect or neglected use of safety control levers and isolation devices.
At Vally Plant Training, we recognise the importance of this update and are committed to supporting the construction and agricultural industries through NPORS-accredited excavator, slinger signaller, and lift supervisor training that meets the latest HSE standards.
Understanding the HSE Safety Notice: The Risk and the Responsibility
The HSE’s new safety notice highlights a critical risk — workers can be struck by an excavator or suspended load if the operator does not engage the safety isolation lever correctly. The notice specifically references incidents where operators inadvertently made contact with joystick controls, leading to unintended slewing or load movement.
In one tragic example, a slinger signaller was fatally crushed after the excavator operator leaned out of the cab for communication, accidentally moving the control joystick. The machine’s isolation device was not activated, underscoring the life-saving importance of correct isolation procedures.
The Responsibilities During Excavator Lifting Operations
The HSE guidance reinforces the shared responsibility among all personnel involved in lifting operations. At Vally Plant Training, our NPORS-accredited courses provide the right level of competence, confidence, and compliance for every role:
1️⃣ Excavator Operator
Operators must ensure:
- The safety control lever or isolation device is applied when the excavator is idle or at tick-over.
- No one enters the slewing or operational arc unless it’s confirmed safe.
- Clear communication with the Slinger Signaller before any movement.
- Full compliance with the lifting plan and LOLER regulations.
Our NPORS Excavator with Lifting Operations Course focuses on pre-lift checks, attachment inspections, and correct control isolation procedures to prevent unintended motion.
2️⃣ Slinger Signaller
Slinger Signallers are the eyes and ears of the operation. They must:
- Select and check lifting accessories like chains, slings, and shackles.
- Use correct hand, arm, or radio signals to direct operators safely.
- Maintain a clear line of communication throughout lifting activities.
- Stay outside the danger zone until the operator confirms isolation.
Our NPORS Slinger Signaller Training teaches communication discipline, hazard awareness, and correct lifting techniques in accordance with HSE and CITB standards.
3️⃣ Lift Supervisor
The Lift Supervisor ensures the overall safety and efficiency of every lift by:
- Implementing and reviewing the lifting plan.
- Ensuring all personnel are competent and certified (NPORS, CSCS, or equivalent).
- Monitoring adherence to isolation procedures.
- Managing risk assessments and supervising ongoing operations.
Vally Plant Training’s NPORS Lift Supervisor Course equips supervisors with the knowledge to manage lifting operations safely and effectively.
Competence, Isolation, and Safety — The Core of Every Operation
The HSE’s new safety alert reinforces that competence and correct machine isolation are the cornerstones of safe excavator operation. Employers and duty holders must ensure:
- Operators, Slingers, and Supervisors hold valid NPORS or equivalent training.
- A suitable risk assessment and lifting plan are always in place.
- Machine isolation procedures are monitored and enforced.
At Vally Plant Training, we deliver CITB TPN-approved NPORS training designed to meet the latest HSE safety guidance. Our courses focus on practical, real-world skills and correct operational discipline to keep your team compliant and protected.
Why Choose Vally Plant Training?
✅ CITB Approved Training Provider Network (TPN) Member
✅ NPORS Accredited for Excavator, Dumper, and Lifting Operations
✅ On-site or Training Centre Delivery Across the UK
✅ No Brokers – Book Direct for Transparent Pricing
✅ Highly Experienced Instructors with Real Industry Expertise
Our goal is simple — to ensure every operator, slinger, and lift supervisor has the skills, certification, and awareness to operate safely in line with HSE’s latest safety requirements.
Final Thought
The HSE’s new guidance on excavator isolation is a crucial reminder of how quickly things can go wrong when safety devices are ignored. Every person on-site has a role to play in keeping lifting operations safe — and that begins with competence, training, and awareness.
Choose Vally Plant Training, your trusted partner for NPORS Excavator, Slinger Signaller, and Lift Supervisor Training across the UK.
Together, we can raise the standard of plant safety and prevent avoidable accidents.
