Safety First!

Prior to operating any JAWS® Pile Breaking Hire machines, it’s essential that you adhere to the following instructions and safety measures outlined below.  Hire customers should always carry out a suitable risk assessment and ensure that all operatives have read and fully understood the manual and have read, understood and signed a safety checklist.

JAWS®  Pile Breaking machines are designed to work in conjunction with a digger or excavator using quick-attach flow and return couplings. When the auxiliaries are activated with a pointed carbide, inserts at the end extend and then compress the pile causing it to fracture.

It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that all plant and attachments used in conjunction with JAWS® Pile Breaking machines are tested in accordance with statutory requirements . Our bespoke range of JAWS®  Pile Breakers can  be used on any round or square piles.

Download Safety and Operating manual
  • ALWAYS
  • Wear all the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including:

    • A hard hat
    • Safety shoes
    • Safety glasses, goggles or face shield
    • Safety gloves
    • Hearing protection
    • Reflective clothing
    • Dust mask

  • Know the capacity and operating characteristics of this machine and DO NOT exceed the aforementioned.
  • Use a trained Banksman at all times and maintain clear visual and verbal communication with them.
  • Check lifting chains and correct lifting capacity before use.
  • Check that the lifting eyes, chain and shackles are in good condition before use and have been statutorily tested.
  • Check all bolts, nuts and hydraulic fittings are tight before use.
  • Check the hydraulic system is in good condition including; fittings, hose, cylinders, valves etc. Ensure no leaks.
  • Check the structure is in good condition, including; cracks on welds, pins etc.
  • Check the carbide bullets are in good condition (if not this can put excessive pressure on the structure of the machine during operation).
  • Before applying pressure to the hydraulic system, be sure all connections are tight and that lines, pipes and hoses are not damaged.
  • NEVER
  • Never modify or remove any part of the machine (This may only be done so for servicing by a trained and competent person).
  • Never disconnect hydraulic lines before relieving all the pressure.
  • Never use the hydraulic hoses as a handle.
  • Never overload the chains or cropper.
  • Never stand directly under an elevated cropper or any other related equipment/machinery before, during and after use.
  • Never use the Cropper for anything other than its intended use.
  • Never arrive onsite without the appropriate PPE gear and equipment.
  • Never stand within a 6 Metre radius of the pile prior to breaking the pile.
  • Ensure fluid leaks are cleaned up safely and never expose your skin to such fluids.
  • Under no circumstances are you to get inside the cropper, stand on the cropper or come into contact with it during use.