Excavator Safety Guide

Excavators are a staple of construction sites everywhere. These machines can help you get your tasks done faster and more efficiently. But heavy equipment can be dangerous. That’s why it’s important that you take some safety precautions when using your excavator. Fortunately for you, we’ve created the following safety guide. If you have questions or you’re in the market for some new equipment, contact Bobcat of New Hampshire at one of our locations in Chichester, or Hudson, New Hampshire. We also proudly serve Manchester and Nashua. 

Before Operation

Safety starts before you even turn your excavator on. You need to ensure that your machine is functioning properly. You can accomplish this by checking the propel system and controls. Checking these systems before you start working can help prevent an accident. Another simple safety precaution you can take is to check that the mirrors on your equipment are clean. Being able to see clearly is an important part of operating your excavator.

Before starting any major project, you’ll need to call the local utility company so they can mark the job site for any underground lines or structures. It’s important to avoid digging into any of these objects. One more safety step to take before starting your excavator is to put your seatbelt on.

During Operation

The majority of safety procedures you need to follow will happen while operating your machine. Follow these steps to keep yourself and those around you safe:

• Don’t allow anyone to ever ride in the bucket or cab.
• Decrease the equipment’s speed when working on rough terrain or in high traffic areas.
• Keep the bucket low to the ground when transporting materials.
• When moving the excavator, try to stay on flat ground.
• When descending slopes, the bottom of the bucket should be low and parallel to the ground.
• Do not dig underneath the excavator.

After Operation

Safety doesn’t stop once you turn your machine off. When you’re done using your excavator, make sure it is parked on a level surface with the bucket lowered to the ground. Next, turn off the auto-idle switch and run the engine at half throttle without a load for a few minutes. This will help the turbocharger cool down. You should also set the RPM to low idle and shut the engine off using the key switch. Lastly, lock up the cab after you exit the excavator. 

We hope our guide helps you stay safe while using your excavator. If you still have questions or you’re looking to buy some new machines, stop by Bobcat of New Hampshire today. We have locations in Chichester, and Hudson, New Hampshire and we also serve Manchester and Nashua. We look forward to helping you find the best equipment for your job site!