The IOSH "Quick Hitch" Survey

February 2011

The results of the recent IOSH Quick Hitch Survey are now available and although this was a relatively small study, some interesting information has been gathered. As Chair of the Construction Group, I would like to thank the 163 members who took part, the members of the Construction Group committee who helped to organise it and the IOSH staff who produced the report.

For those who may be unfamiliar with the term, a quick hitch (QH) on an excavator is a 'latching device' that enables attachments to be connected to the dipper arm of the plant and inter-changed quickly. There are three main types on the market –manual, semi-automatic and automatic.

Following four fatal accidents, all involving semi-automatic quick hitches (QHs) between December 2006 and November 2007, the European manufacturers voluntarily agreed to cease supply into the UK from October 2008. Early in 2010, the Construction Plant-hire Association issued a best practice guide 'Safe use of Quick Hitches on Excavators aimed at those who own, supply or control operation of QHs on excavators.

In October 2010, the IOSH Construction Group Committee sought to gather information from Group members about the uptake of this Guidance and current QH practice in the UK construction sector. This on-line survey was undertaken in order to share the information with other interested parties, to improve intelligence about QH usage and management and promote standards.

John Lacey

Construction Group Chair and Vice President

Please note. The opinions expressed in Branch or Group articles, presentations and other documents, posted on this website are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). Where the content includes discussion and information about UK law or occupational health matters, this should not be regarded as legal or medical advice. Where legal advice is required, a suitably qualified lawyer should be consulted. Where medical advice is required, a suitably qualified medical practitioner should be consulted.

Save as set out in these terms of use, IOSH, to the fullest extent permitted by law, excludes all warranties, conditions and implied terms, including the warranty of non-infringement of third parties' rights.