This page covers one of the 2021 innovation winners.
Bump Grinder Safety Bar
Submitted by: Jerry Kenna (Ft. Wayne District)
This INDOT innovation enhances safety for crews who maintain equipment used to smooth uneven road surfaces. The bump grinder is a skid‑steer attachment that uses sharp metal teeth to grind down bumps in pavement. This process improves ride quality, increases skid resistance, and can even extend pavement life. Over time, the grinder’s teeth wear down or break and must be replaced.
Previously, crews had no secure way to hold open the heavy metal lid of the bump grinder during repairs. To solve this, a bolted safety bar was developed to lock the lid firmly in place. Once secured, the bar prevents the lid from falling, allowing employees to replace teeth safely and with confidence.
This simple innovation provides a reliable safety measure during equipment maintenance, reducing risk and helping crews work more efficiently.
Purchasing details coming soon...
