FACTS

1. Most coupler-related injuries are the result of an operator not properly securing the safety pin on semi-automatic or manual models.
2. Numerous injuries, some resulting in fatalities, have occurred as a result of poor coupler connections and dropped buckets.
3. Failure to properly engage and lock the coupler is likely the cause of accidents in most cases.
4. According to OSHA, unintended coupler releases tend to happen because users may not be aware of changeout hazards, they fail to properly insert locking pins or they have insufficient training on installation and testing procedures.

STATS

• According to a study conducted by the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), there were 15 injury-related accidents between 1998 and 2005 in the U.S. involving the unanticipated release of excavator buckets from quick couplers on hydraulic excavators.
• Eight of those accidents resulted in fatalities.