•
Do not allow riders on the equipment at any time. There is no safe place for any riders.
•
Never use alcoholic beverages or drugs which can hinder alertness or coordination while operating
this equipment. Consult your doctor about operating this equipment while taking prescription
or over-the-counter medications.
•
Safe operation of equipment requires the operator's full attention. Avoid distractions such as radio
headphones, cell phones, etc. while operating.
•
Contact with underground gas lines or electrical cables may result in serious injury or death from
explosion or electrical shock. Before operating, call 811 or the local number to locate underground
utilities.
•
Do not drill near underground utility lines.
•
Before beginning operation, clear the work area of objects which might be picked up and thrown by
or entangled in the auger.
•
The earth auger must be securely latched to the vehicle. Ensure both locking handles are in the
locked position with pins fully seated. An improperly latched earth auger can fall without warning.
•
Before you operate the attachment, check over all pins, bolts, and connections to be sure all are
securely in place. Replace any damaged or worn parts immediately.
•
Never replace the auger retaining bolt with anything other than the specified length bolt in this
manual. A longer, or protruding, fastener is more likely to grab clothing or gloves, which can result
in serious injury or death.
•
Keep all helpers and bystanders twenty-five feet (25') away from an operating earth auger.
•
Keep hands, feet, hair, jewelry, and clothing away from all moving and/or rotating parts.
•
Never place yourself between the vehicle and the attachment.
•
Worn teeth or a slightly rounded point can seriously affect auger penetration. Check for wear before
each use, and replace as necessary.
•
Never position the auger point by hand or with any tool when the vehicle is running.
•
Never position the auger point by putting your hands on the auger or drive unit.
•
Do not shovel dirt away from a rotating auger, as the shovel can be caught and thrown by the auger.
•
Never transport with the drive unit out of the cradle or while the auger is rotating.
•
A heavy load can cause instability of the vehicle. Use extreme care during travel. Slow down on
turns and watch out for bumps. Use all safety devices, including a seat belt, as recommended in the
vehicle operator’s manual.
•
Do not operate the earth auger on steep hillsides. When drilling on uneven or hilly terrain, position
the vehicle with the earth auger uphill. With the earth auger downhill, the vehicle could tip when
attempting to raise the auger from its hole. Consult your vehicle operator’s manual for maximum
incline allowable.
•
Always shut off the vehicle engine, remove the key, lower vehicle arms, and relieve all hydraulic
pressure before dismounting the vehicle. Never leave equipment unattended with the vehicle
running.
•
Never attempt adjustments, service, or repairs while the equipment is in operation.
Safety
(continued)
5