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The
operator must read these instructions before starting the excavator.
1. The excavator must
be operated correctly according to the manufacturer or owner’s operating
instructions, which are available on request if required.
2. The driver should be
properly trained in the safe operation of excavators.
3. It is a requirement
of the law that operators must be over the age of 18 years.
4.
Wear personal
protective equipment as conditions determine. A hardhat and boots with
steel toecaps are usually necessary. Wear a dust mask in dusty conditions.
Dust generated by the excavation can give rise to silicosis.
5. Carry out service
checks and adjustments at the start of each working day with the engine
shutdown and the boom lowered to the ground.
6. DO
NOT work under the
excavator when it is jacked up on its boom (or blade).
7. CHECK
that all guards and covers are secure before starting. NEVER operate the excavator with missing guards or covers.
8. Only use buckets
and attachments supplied by the hire company and operate them according to
the manufacturer’s instructions, which are available on request if
required.
9. CHECK
that all persons and animals are clear of the work area before starting
and at all times during the work.
10.
Before starting check for
the presence of underground cables and pipes and/or seek advice if
necessary. DO NOT use the
excavator to dig directly above these services, only use hand tools.
11.
Only start and operate the
machine when sitting in the seat.
12.
Before starting to work
lower the stabilisers /dozer blade to the ground to give stability.
14.
Familiarise yourself with
the controls in an open space before starting work. WARNING,
the track drive controls are reversed when facing backwards.
15.
DO
NOT use maximum engine
speed until completely familiar with all controls.
16.
DO NOT
carry passengers on the excavator.
17.
DO
NOT use the excavator
beneath overhead electric cables unless there is adequate clearance with
the boom in its highest position.
18.
If trenches are to be
excavated then it is likely that these will need support if they are more
than 1.2 metres deep.
19.
DO
NOT force the
excavator beyond its capacity. This can cause the machine to become
unstable.
20.
Take care when operating
in the fully offset position; the machine is less stable.
21.
Extreme care should be
taken when operating across a slope. Travel straight up and down if
possible and keep the bucket as low as possible.
22.
DO
NOT move forward over
a trench when digging, always move back and away from it.
23.
When loading another
vehicle, the driver of that vehicle should dismount and stand well clear.
24.
DO NOT
use a bucket to drive in posts or piles etc.
25.
DO
NOT stand or work
under a raised boom.
26.
DO
NOT sling a load from
the boom or bucket unless it is fitted with the correct safety crane hook
and is marked with a “Safe Working Load”, for example “SWL 500kg”.
DO
KNOW the lifting
capabilities
of the machine being operated.
27.
Any person slinging loads
should know about safe slinging practices.
28.
Only use suitable lifting
gear that has been inspected and marked with its SWL.
29.
DO
NOT lift a load that
is heavier than the safe working load.
30.
DO NOT
travel with the boom and dipper raised and extended. Always fold tight
into the machine.
31.
DO
NOT cross kerbs and
other obstructions at an angle. Keep the bucket as low as possible.
The
Petrol or Diesel Engine
32.
DO
NOT smoke when
refuelling. Never refuel with the engine running.
33.
Replace the fuel caps
securely on the engine and fuel container. Wipe up any spillage
immediately.
34.
Fuel containers should be
in good condition and leak proof.
35.
DO
NOT use the excavator
in a hazardous or explosive atmosphere, or where fuel has been spilt.
36.
DO NOT
operate the excavator in a badly ventilated area or where exhaust fumes
can build up. If the machine has to be used in an enclosed area, ducting
should be used to discharge exhaust fumes to a safe place.
37.
In the event of a leak of fuel or
oil developing, switch the machine off immediately.
38.
If warning lights show or gauges
register outside normal limits, switch off the engine.
39.
DO
NOT top up with coolant while
the engine is running. Allow the radiator to cool before removing the
radiator cap and topping up.
40.
When noise levels are
uncomfortably high at 85-89 dB(A), it is advisable to wear hearing
protectors.
41.
At still higher noise levels, (90
dB(A) and above) the law requires that hearing protectors must be worn.
42.
Before stopping the engine and
leaving the seat, lower the bucket (and blade) to the ground.
43.
If the machine is fitted with
tracks, park on timbers in freezing weather to prevent the tracks from
freezing to the ground.
44.
DO
NOT attempt repairs.
Contact
Central Plant Hire.
These
notes are for guidance only and all equipment must be correctly operated
according to the manufacturer’s operating instruction.
Contact us
if you have any questions.
All
Hires are subject to our Terms and Conditions. Click
here to View our Terms and Conditions.
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