5
Safety Instructions
Reasons For Compaction
GB
Soil, which has been disturbed or new in
¿
ll, subbase and blacktop, will have small voids or air pockets which, if not compacted, will
lead to one or more problems occurring.
1. As traf
¿
c crosses the surface of an uncompacted area, the material is compressed. This leads to subsidence of the top
surface as the material
¿
lls the voids.
2. A similar situation occurs with static loads on uncompacted ground. The load (e.g. a building) will sink.
3. Materials with voids are more susceptible to water seepage, leading to erosion. Water ingress may also cause the soil to
expand during freezing temperatures and contract during dry spells. Expansion and contraction is a major cause of damage to
building foundations and normally leads to the structure requiring underpinning.
Compaction increases the density of the material and therefore increases its load bearing capacity. Reduces air voids and therefore
reduces the risk of subsidence, expansion and contraction, due to ingress of water.
GB
For your own personal protection and for the safety of those around you, please read and ensure you fully understand the following
safety information. It is the responsibility of the operator to ensure that he/she fully understands how to operate this equipment safely.
If you are unsure about the safe and correct use of the ‘PCX 60A’ Plate compactor, consult your supervisor or Altrad Belle.
Fuel Safety.
•
Before refuelling, switch off the engine and allow it to cool.
•
When refuelling, DO NOT smoke or allow naked
À
ames in the area.
•
Spilt fuel must be made safe immediately, using sand. If fuel is spilt on your clothes, change them.
•
Store fuel in an approved, purpose made container away from heat and ignition sources.
•
This equipment is heavy and must not be lifted single-handedly, either GET HELP or use suitable lifting equipment.
•
Cordon off the work area and keep members of the public and unauthorized personnel at a safe distance.
•
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn by the operator whenever this equipment is being used (see Health & Safety).
•
Make sure you know how to safely switch this machine OFF before you switch it ON in case you get into dif
¿
culty.
•
Always switch OFF the engine before transporting, moving it around the site or servicing it.
•
During use the engine becomes very hot, allow the engine to cool before touching it. Never leave the engine running and
unattended.
•
Never remove or tamper with any guards
¿
tted, they are there for your protection. Always check guards for condition and
security, if any are damaged or missing, DO NOT USE THE MACHINE until the guard has been replaced or repaired.
•
Do not operate the MACHINE when you are ill, feeling tired, or when under the in
À
uence of alcohol or drugs.
Environment
Safe Disposal.
Instructions for the protection of the environment.
The machine contains valuable materials. Take the
discarded apparatus and accessories to the
relevant recycling facilities.
GB
Component
Material
Operator Handle
Steel
Baseplate
Steel
Eccentric Weights
Steel
Vibrator Housing
Aluminium
Petrol Engine Housing
Aluminium
Petrol Engine Covers
Synthetic Material
Various Parts
Steel & Aluminium
Improper maintenance can be hazardous. Read and Understand this section before you perform any
maintenance, service or repairs.
CAUTION
Fuel is
À
ammable. It may cause injury and property damage. Shut down the engine, extinguish all
open
À
ames and do not smoke while
¿
lling the fuel tank. Always wipe up any spilled fuel.
CAUTION
