- Ensure someone from your company has called 811 or your local One-Call system and any utility companies that do not subscribe to One-Call. Do not dig until all utility lines are marked.
- Know the operation of the skid-steer loader, including the purpose of all controls, gauges and indicators, and how to follow the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions for safe operation. If you don’t know, ask for help.
- Check and use all available protective and safety devices such as roll-over protective structure (ROPS), seat belt, falling-object protective structure (FOPS), safety signs, lift-arm support devices, back-up alarms, guards, etc. Never operate a skid-steer loader that has been damaged or modified.
- Know the work area and others working there. Keep bystanders away from the skid-steer loader when operating and always look in the direction of travel.
- Handle the load safely. Do not exceed the skid-steer loader’s rated operating capacity, and plan operation to load, unload and turn on level ground.
- To leave the skid-steer loader: Lower the lift arms and place the attachment flat on the ground, engage the park brake, make sure all controls are locked or in neutral and stop the engine.
- Never stand or reach under raised lift arms unless they are properly supported with an approved lift-arm-support device.
For more skid-steer safety tips, check out “Safety Watch” in our July issue.
