Who is allowed to operate machinery and equipment?

The correct answer is that only authorized persons are allowed to operate machinery and equipment. This ensures that individuals who are operating heavy machinery have received proper training and certification, which is critical for maintaining safety standards on the job site. Authorized operators understand the specific operational protocols and safety procedures associated with the machinery they are tasked to handle. This reduces the risk of accidents, injuries, and equipment damage, thus fostering a safer work environment for everyone.

In contrast, allowing anyone on the site to operate machinery could lead to unsafe conditions, as they may lack the necessary training to operate the equipment safely and effectively. Similarly, while employees in training may have some level of knowledge and experience, they typically are not yet authorized to operate machinery independently until they complete their training and receive appropriate certification. Visitors, even if they have experience, should not operate machinery due to liability and safety concerns, as they are not employees of the company and may not be familiar with the specific site safety protocols.