LANDSCAPE ONTARIO – WORKPLACE SAFETY TAILGATE TALKS
© 2026, WSPS.CA 85
PLATE COMPACTOR
Personal Protective Equipment
Equipment Hazards
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What types of injuries are possible when using
a plate compactor?
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Rotating the task of plate compacting will minimize
the exposure of vibrational forces and reduce injuries.
Prevention Points
When operating on a relatively level grade, a plate compactor
will move under its own power with the operator directing its
travel path. When compacting on a grade which is not level,
the operator may have to take steps to control the machine
and to ensure their safety. Consider these prevention points:
Review the General Health & Safety Best Practices section
on page 11 before performing any task.
Do not operate plate compactors inside a building or other
enclosed environment which is not properly vented due to
carbon monoxide build up.
Avoid operating a plate compactor on hard or
non-yielding surface.
