The often overlooked area of any "on-board driven" equipment, and understandably so given the cost of a "non-essential" component. Seats, arm rests, grips, and on down to the ergo mat on the floorboard serve to keep operators safe and comfortable.
Consider that an operator who is comfortable on their assigned equipment is not preoccupied with feeling discomfort and attempting to adapt, possibly unsafely so, the cause of discomfort with what is available in the workplace - is able to focus on the task at hand, and the safety required to do so.
The operator is not without responsibility in the maintaining of these particular items, along with the overall equipment. Creating an environment where owner/manager/operator feel equally invested in the care of the "assets" is key to cost reduction in this matter.
We also need to consider the fatigue that comes from these items when they wear out - excessive vibration, more compacting bounces over bumps/rough terrain, or even missing floor mats that cause engine vibration to travel to the operators legs. Not long into this situation, you could see L&I claims and missed work, etc.!
My 2 cents worth of personal advice: This is a group effort, as mentioned above and also with your equipment service or parts provider. Identify the items that wear out frequently and negotiate a "bulk deal". If you currently are playing catch up on one or several items, negotiate a one time deal to control costs. Also possible, an agreement to buy items in bulk at one time annually, most vendors are more than happy to perpetuate business in this way! If you find a unique method to facilitate this kind of situation, I would love to know about it!
Tom Kassen
