An operator is feeding a primary jaw crusher with a wheel loader when they notice a large rock bridging the crusher opening. What is the immediate and safest action to take?

Question: An operator is feeding a primary jaw crusher with a wheel loader when they notice a large rock bridging the crusher opening. What is the immediate and safest action to take?

Answer options: ✅ Stop feeding material, shut down the crusher, and follow lockout/tagout procedures before attempting to clear the bridge.

• Attempt to dislodge the rock using the loader bucket from a safe distance.
• Increase the feed rate to try and force the rock through the crusher.
• Alert other workers and observe the situation for a few minutes to see if the rock clears itself.

Correct answer: Stop feeding material, shut down the crusher, and follow lockout/tagout procedures before attempting to clear the bridge.

Explanation: According to Ontario Regulation 213/91 Section 171(2), clearing bridged material from a crusher must only be done after the crusher has been stopped and locked out to prevent accidental activation and serious injury.