Excavator Safety Guide
It’s no wonder why excavators are found on thousands of farms and construction sites around the world. Excavators are powerful yet versatile, making them a useful tool in a variety of different circumstances. However, like all tools, there is the potential for harm if these vehicles are misused. That’s why the experts at Mullally Tractor Sales have created this excavator safety guide.
Before Operation
Even before you actually start the excavator itself, there are several things that you can do to ensure safe operation. Even doing something as simple as cleaning and readjusting the excavator’s mirrors can help make things safer. As with all heavy equipment, an excavator should undergo a safety inspection before each usage. If there are any underground utility lines or other structures that should be avoided, the operator needs to be made aware of them. If you’re not sure where these underground structures are, have the local utility company mark them for you. Beyond that, the excavator operator should follow basic safety procedures such as wearing a seatbelt at all times.
During Operation
When the time comes to actually operate the excavator, it’s important that a few key safety rules are observed. For example, no one should be allowed to ride in the excavator’s bucket or in the cab without a seatbelt. The operator should stay aware of their surroundings at all times. If they notice obstacles, people, animals, or rough terrain in the way, the operator should move slower until they have maneuvered around the hazard. Speaking of rough terrain, the excavator operator should stick to flat and even ground whenever possible. Finally, it’s important to keep the excavator’s bucket low when transporting materials or tackling slopes. Never attempt to dig under the excavator itself.
After Operation
It’s safest to park an excavator on level ground with the bucket lowered. If the operator is done using the excavator for the day, it’s recommended that they turn off the auto-idle switch and run the engine at half throttle for a few minutes. This will give the turbocharger a chance to cool down. Once the turbocharger has cooled, the operator should set the ROM to low idle and shut off the engine. Don’t forget to lock the equipment up for the night!
Shop excavators at Mullally Tractor Sales Inc. in Jeffersonville, New York. We’re proud to serve regions like Ulster and Delaware County, New York, as well as Wayne County, Pennsylvania. We also have parts, servicing, and financing. We hope you’ll come to visit us soon!