Posted By S Ward Under RIDDOR the overturning of an excavator is classified as a Dangerous Occurrence, but how far would an excavator have to tip to be considered as having overturned? For example has it overturned if it tips through 90 degrees and comes to rest on its side? If anyone can point me in the direction of any definitive guidance on this point I would be grateful - I have already tried the RIDDOR ACOP and it doesn't help much.

Posted By George Wedgwood I would be more concerned at understanding the reasons for an overturn or even a 'near' overturn - the angle of the vehicle is academic once it leaves the specification for operation or its stable operating plane. As has been said, the potential harm is what you need to understand and if a track or wheel leaves the ground permanently, disabling the normal function of the vehicle, it has 'overturned', requiring external help to be righted. Excavators can operate safely on significant slopes that would create risk for ordinary vehicles so yours must have exceeded its manufacturer's angle of operation. That can be corrected by better site planning and better operator training. What the HSE need to know is whether there is a fundamental flaw in safe design or safe systems of work, so the Report may help in that by adding to the National stats that can later be used for supporting initiatives to improve safety.