2 - SAFETY INFORMATION
Safety rules - Operating precautions
•
Check brakes, steering and other machine control
devices in accordance with the manufacturer’s in-
structions prior to starting operation. Observe all
gauges or warning instruments for proper operation.
Operate all controls to insure proper operation. If
any malfunctions are found, remove the starter key
or disconnect switch key. Place a DO NOT OPER-
ATE tag on the machine until the malfunction is cor-
rected.
•
If a failure that causes loss of control such as steer-
ing, service brakes, or engine occurs, stop the ma-
chine motion as quickly as possible, remove the
starter key or disconnect switch key. Place a DO
NOT OPERATE tag on the machine, and keep it
securely parked until the malfunction is corrected or
the machine can be safely towed.
•
Understand the machine limitations, and keep the
machine under control.
•
Operate and drive the machine with care and at
speed compatible with conditions. Use extra cau-
tion when operating over rough ground, on slopes,
and when turning.
•
Note and avoid all hazards and obstructions such as
ditches, underground lines, trees, cliffs, overhead
electrical wires, or areas where there is danger of a
slide.
•
Carry loads in recommended positions for maxi-
mum stability.
•
Never lift loads in excess of capacity.
•
Use the recommended machine ballast and coun-
terweighting.
•
Know and understand the job site traffic flow pat-
terns and obey signalmen, road signs, and flagmen.
•
Know and understand that job site conditions may
change on an hourly basis. Hills of dirt, debris or
obstructions may grow and change from the time
you began the day. It is your responsibility to mon-
itor the changes and keep the machine, tools and
attachments, etc. a safe distance.
•
Watch for bystanders and never allow anyone to
be under or to reach through the machine and its
equipment while operating.
•
Select a gear that will prevent excessive speed
when going downhill. Do not coast downhill.
•
When roading a machine, know and use the signal-
ing devices required on the machine. Provide an
escort for roading where required.
•
On machines with independently operated wheel
brakes, lock the brake pedals together when road-
ing to provide equalized brake application.
•
Use the recommended transport devices when
roading the machine. Proper lights, flashers, sig-
nals, and beacons may be required. Use reflective
slow moving vehicle signs where necessary. Follow
local, state, and federal regulations.
•
Use the approved drawbar and/or attachment point
when using the machine for towing. If a cable or
chain is used, keep people away from the tow line.
•
Before you operate at night, check that all lamps
illuminate.
•
If your machine has a cab, make sure that all win-
dows are clean and that the windshield wipers and
washers work correctly.
•
Engine exhaust fumes can cause death. If you op-
erate this machine in an enclosed area, make sure
there is ventilation to replace the exhaust fumes with
fresh air.
•
Check all controls in a clear area and make sure the
machine is operating correctly. Dust, fog, smoke,
etc., can decrease your vision and cause an acci-
dent. Stop the machine or decrease the speed until
you can see.
•
Contact with high voltage power lines, underground
cables, etc., can cause serious injury or death from
electrocution.
•
Before you drive or operate in an area with high
voltage lines, cables, or a power station, tell the
power or utility company what you are going to do.
You MUST HAVE THE POWER DISCONNECTED
OR KEEP A SAFE WORKING DISTANCE from the
lines, cables, or power station.
•
Keep all parts of the machine a safe distance away
from the power source. You must also know any
federal, state/provincial, or local safety codes or
regulations that apply to the job site.
•
If a part of the machine touches high voltage power:
1.
Warn other workers NOT TO TOUCH THE
MACHINE and to stay away from the ma-
chine.
2.
If you can break contact, reverse the opera-
tion that caused contact with the high voltage
power, and move the machine away from the
danger area. If you cannot break contact stay
in the machine until the utility company de-en-
ergizes the line and tells you that the power is
off.
•
If you have extreme conditions, such as a fire, etc.,
and you are forced to leave the machine, do not step
off the machine. Jump as far from the machine as
2 - 7
