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Excavator Safety Guide

Apr. 5 2021 Safety By New South Tractor

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Your excavator is an important part of your operation. However, heavy pieces of equipment can be dangerous. That’s why it’s important to take some important safety steps every time you use your machine. At New South Tractor, we want you and your crew to stay safe and productive, so keep reading for some excavator safety tips. If you’re looking to buy some new equipment, reach out to our team at our location in Newton, North Carolina near Asheville!

Before Operation

Let’s start with some safety tips that you can use before you start operating your excavator. First, make sure the seatbelts are in good condition. Next, check that the mirrors are clean and in the proper position. Don’t forget to check the controls and ensure that the levers are performing properly. It’s also important to inspect the propel system before you start using your excavator. This will help you prevent accidents on the job. We also recommend calling the area’s utility services so you can have your job site marked for any underground lines or structures.

During Operation

Now that you’ve taken some proactive steps to ensure safe usage of your excavator, it’s time to turn the machine on. 

Here are some important safety tips for using your excavator:

  • Don’t let anyone ride in the bucket.
  • Do not operate the equipment unless you are sitting in the seat and have full control.
  • When moving the excavator around the site, choose the route with the flattest ground.
  • Steer the machine as straight as possible.
  • Never dig underneath the machine.
  • In steep or slippery conditions, use the boom and arm to help move the machine up and down the slope. 
  • Carry the bucket low to the ground when you are moving around the job site. This will improve visibility and the equipment’s stability.

After Operation

When you’re done using your excavator, your job isn’t done just yet. It’s time to take a few safety steps to ensure the machine is shut down. Before turning off the equipment, make sure it is parked on a level surface and the bucket is lowered to the ground. Next, turn off the auto-idle switch and run the engine at half throttle with no load for a few minutes. This will help the turbocharger to cool down. Finally, set the RPM to low idle before you shut off the engine with the key switch and don’t forget to lock up the cab!

We hope these tips help you and your crew stay safe while using your excavator. If you have any questions or you want to buy some new equipment, call New South Tractor. We are located in Newton, North Carolina and proudly serve Asheville. We can’t wait to help you find the perfect equipment for your operation!