Heavy equipment operators spend long hours in a cab or on a site, in dust, heat or cold. Comfort in the seat, light for early starts and gear for hands are the most useful places to start.
In the cab
- A seat cushion or lumbar support. Vibration and long hours are hard on backs.
- An insulated thermos or bottle that fits a cup holder and keeps drinks hot or cold.
- A sturdy lunch bag or cooler.
- A small organizer for the cab, such as a pouch for gloves and a notebook.
On site
- A rechargeable headlamp, if you know what lighting rules apply on their site.
- Work gloves, in a style they like. Check the size.
- Hand cream and lip balm. Dust and wind dry out skin.
- Good work socks and cushioned insoles.
After the shift
A hot meal, a gift card for a favorite restaurant, a comfortable chair or a heat pack is a real break.
What to skip
- Anything that mimics safety gear, such as hard hats or vests with logos. Sites set their own standards.
- Jokes about "big toys" or "playing in the dirt."
- Items that distract in the cab, such as loud or flashing gadgets.
- Bulky items.
Browse more
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