Excavator Rentals

Safe Operating Procedure
  

Safe operation can help meet performance expectations of mini-excavators. When operating mini-excavators, use common sense and follow these guidelines.

ALWAYS BUCKLE YOUR SEATBELT AND MAKE SURE IT FITS SNUGLY AROUND YOUR WAIST.

Before operating the machine, become familiar with it by reading the operator's manual and performing a basic walk-around.

A daily maintenance check should also be done to ensure a safe and trouble-free rental. If a problem is found, notify A to Z Rentals and Sales immediately, and do not attempt to operate the machine.

To prevent the engine from stopping during a lift or during excavation (with the possibility of a dangerous situation), check the fuel level to make sure the tank is full.

Make sure no one enters the danger zone while the machine is in operation.

The operator should wear sunglasses to prevent glare in the eyes.

To eliminate the possibility of a trench cave-in, don't undercut the tracks during excavation.

Before lifting, know the lift capacity of the machine, to prevent the possibility of a tip-over.

Check the security of the chain or hoist, and never use a bucket cylinder rod as a lifting point.

Avoid tip-overs 

There are several guidelines to follow to avoid tip-overs.

While the main function of the dozer blade is grading and back fill, it can also be used as extra support for stability when excavating on uneven ground. It also offers extra lift capability during lift operations. To avoid an unstable situation, be sure to raise the dozer blade before moving.

Use caution in rotating over the track with the arm fully extended.

The tracks should be on firm ground that won't give way during operation and the machine should sit as horizontal to the ground as possible. This will reduce the likelihood of tip-over and also provide stress-free work for the operator.

These safety guidelines should be a priority when operating any mini-excavator. If these guidelines are followed with common sense during operation, the machine will perform to your expectations and get the job done without the risk of injury or accidents on the jobsite.

It is very important to call your local utility company before you dig to locate underground wires or pipes.

Most excavators are required by law to have certain safety items, such as back-up alarms, siren-type lighting, headlights, safety harnesses, and so on.

KNOW YOUR SYMBOLS!

Excavators are potentially dangerous pieces of equipment. Before operating a trencher, become familiar with symbols and decals on the machine.

Safety is a concern with excavators as with all power equipment. Do not remove protective shields or disconnect safety switches, and make sure the engine is turned off before performing any adjustments or maintenance.

When you operate a excavator, avoid loose clothing that could catch in moving parts, and always wear eye protection.

Operating the Excavator

1. Use care when mounting riding trenchers. Be sure your hands and shoes are clean and dry. Use the handrails, not control levers, to guide yourself.

2. Fasten the seat belt and adjust the seat to a comfortable position.

3.Warn others away from the machine and work area especially children and pets.

4. Be sure the transmission and other controls are in the neutral position. Set the brakes on all models.

5. Start the engine and test all controls.

6.  Use caution when operating on slopes as the machine will want to work down the slope.

7. Never make sharp turns while digging.

8. Never adjust or attempt to free a jammed chain while it is running. Always stop the machine and engine first.

9. Never allow any riders.

Follow these steps when shutting the machine down for any length of time:

1. Lower any attachments to the ground.

2. Set the parking brake or block the wheels.

3. Put the transmission in park or neutral.

4. Stop the engine.

5. Cycle the hydraulic controls to relieve any pressure.

6. Remove the ignition key.

7. Dismount carefully using steps and handholds.

Excavator Safety

1. Read the operator's manual before attempting to operate the machine.

2. Be sure you understand it completely.

3. Dress properly for the job. Wear snug-fitting, sturdy pants and shirt, safety shoes, safety helmet, hard hat, safety goggles or screen, and hearing protection.

4. Check the machine for loose, missing, or broken parts.

5. Tighten, repair, or replace as needed before using.

6. Check all safety devices such as seat belts, roll-over protective structures (ROPS), shields, warning lights, etc., to see that they are in place and working.

7. Read and heed the safety warning decals on the machine.

8. Check for hydraulic leaks with a piece of wood or cardboard. Never use your hand as pinpoint leaks can penetrate the skin.

9. When checking radiator coolant, cover the cap with a cloth to protect yourself from escaping steam. Open the cap slightly to release pressure, and then open the rest of the way. Allow engine to cool before adding any needed coolant.

10. Fill the fuel tank with engine stopped and cool. Do not smoke. Be sure there are no sparks or open flames nearby. If you must refuel during operation, allow the engine to cool a few minutes before doing so.

11. Check for underground utilities in the digging area. You should request Blue Stake service at least two days in advance of digging. Don't take chances. You could lose your life if you strike a gas or electric line.

12. Check for the presence of overhead utility lines as they can be equally as dangerous.

13. DO NOT start while digging parts are in contact with the ground or other objects, Shut off power to trencher digging chain before moving the tractor with the trencher boom raised.

14. NO SPECTATORS! Keep everyone away from trench and trencher. Do not shovel behind a running trencher.

15. CHECK fluid level daily. NEVER refuel while unit is running and/or hot.

16. THIS MACHINE emits carbon monoxide, a poison and deadly gas. Always operate where well ventilated.

17. MAKE slow gradual turns. Loss of control may cause machine to run into bystander. Do not wire, tape, weight or tamper with operator presence control in any way.

18. ALWAYS wear seat belt at all times. Only operate from drivers seat! NO RIDERS!

19. DO NOT operate on side-hills or rollover may occur.

20. DO NOT work in trench with unstable sides which could cave in. Use shoring or sloping trench walls as required by OSHA.

21.DO NOT Bypass any safety devices or controls. If you do, you may subject yourself and others to serious injury or death.

Bobcat Simulator Training Service - How to operate an Excavator