33
Operate Safely
Trenching Safety Precautions
Follow the worksite plan for proper construction of the
trench. Check with your supervisor if you are unsure of
correct trench construction or if operating conditions
change.
Stay alert to changes in soil conditions. Trench collapse
is hazardous to all workers in the area and could cause
the machine to slide into the trench.
Keep heavy loads and equipment as far from the trench
as possible.
Keep spoil and stored materials such as pipe at least
two feet from the edge of the trench.
Keep personnel away from the equipment and
attachments.
Never swing a load or attachment over anyone.
Do not undercut the machine.
WARNING! Do not dig under the machine or blade.
A resulting cave-in could cause death or serious injury.
WARNING!
Avoid possible death or serious injury from
trench wall collapse.
Before backfilling, see the
manufacturer’s manual for any specific instructions.
Do not get too close to the edge of the cut.
The
weight of the machine plus the fill could cause the
trench wall to collapse.
Keep
Personnel Away
From Equipment
And Attachments
34
Slope And Uneven Terrain Operation
Compact excavator stability and load capacity are greatly
reduced on slopes. Ensure the operation can be done
safely. Prevent overturns and maintain stability control:
— Use machines equipped with TOPS/ROPS and a seat
belt. Make sure folding TOPS/ROPS is raised and
locked in place—always use the seat belt.
— The retractable track frame, if equipped, should be
extended for operating on slopes or uneven terrain.
Read and know manufacturer’s instructions before
operation.
— Review the manufacturer’s manual for specific
instructions and limitations, including those for proper
operation of alternate/emergency exits.
— Avoid extremely steep slope operation.
— Keep machine movements slow and smooth.
— Level the working area and machine as much as possible.
— Avoid working with the tracks across a slope.
This will reduce stability and increase the tendency
of the machine to slide. Position the machine with the
tracks running up and down the slope—blade
downhill and lowered.
— Avoid slippery ground conditions.
Operate Safely
Always Check
Manuals For Specific
Instructions
Level The
Work Area
If Possible
Fasten Seat Belt,
Use TOPS/ROPS
