Safe Equipment Parking Procedures Toolbox Talk

Parking construction equipment may seem routine, but improper parking can create serious hazards. Machines left on slopes, with raised attachments, or without proper shutdown procedures can move unexpectedly. Rollaways, shifting attachments, or uncontrolled movement can strike workers, damage property, or create unsafe conditions on the jobsite.

This talk focuses on the steps operators must take to safely park equipment. Proper parking procedures help prevent unintended movement, protect workers around the machine, and ensure the equipment is secure before operators leave the cab.

Why This Matters

• Unsecured equipment can roll or move unexpectedly, especially on slopes.
• Raised buckets or attachments can drop if hydraulic pressure is lost.
• Improper shutdown procedures can allow machines to be accidentally activated.
• Workers may approach parked equipment assuming it is safe.
• Busy jobsites increase the risk of someone being near a machine when it shifts or moves.

Common Hazards

• Parking equipment on slopes without setting the parking brake.
• Leaving attachments raised instead of resting them on the ground.
• Failing to place controls in neutral before shutdown.
• Leaving equipment in travel paths or near active work zones.
• Not using wheel chocks when required.
• Operators exiting the cab before the machine is fully secured.
• A parked machine slowly rolling due to soft ground or slight grade changes.

Safety Checklist

Before Work Begins

• Identify designated parking areas for equipment on the jobsite.
• Select level, stable ground whenever possible.
• Ensure operators understand the proper shutdown procedure for each machine.
• Confirm wheel chocks are available if equipment must be parked on slopes.

During Work

• Park equipment on level ground whenever possible.
• Lower all buckets, blades, or attachments fully to the ground.
• Place controls in neutral and set the parking brake.
• Shut down the engine and remove the key when leaving the machine.
• Use wheel chocks if parking on a slope or uneven ground.
• Avoid parking near trenches, edges, or unstable ground.
• Keep parked equipment out of travel lanes and pedestrian areas.

Crew Talking Points

• Where are the designated equipment parking areas on this jobsite?
• What machines will be parked near active work areas today?
• What slopes or ground conditions could cause equipment to shift?
• When should wheel chocks be used?
• What shutdown steps must operators follow before leaving equipment?
• Does anyone see a parking area that could create a hazard for workers?

Stop Work If

• Equipment begins to move after being parked.
• Attachments are left raised without support.
• The parking brake or shutdown controls are not functioning properly.
• The machine must be parked on unstable or steep ground.
• Workers are positioned near equipment that has not been secured.
• The equipment cannot be safely shut down or secured.

Final Reminder

Parking equipment safely takes only a few extra steps. Lower attachments, secure the machine, and make sure it cannot move before walking away.