Safe Operation of Skid Steers and Utility Vehicles

1. Materials Handling Set 6 Marissa Morton SAAIP Top Jobs Intern

2. Skid Steers Over 50% of skid loader fatalities are due to crushing by lift arms and load buckets http://img.alibaba.com/photo/11379672/Used_2001_Bobcat_873g_Cleanest_Machine.jpg

3. Operating the Skid Loader • Entering and Exiting the Skid Loader: • Lift arms and bucket should be completely lowered. DO NOT reach into the cab from the ground level to move hydraulic levers or pedals to position the lift arms and bucket. Crushing can result. • Seat and floor should be clear of obstructions. Objects can roll under foot controls. • Use grab bars (hand holds) andthe tread plates mounted on the load bucket. http://www.newsline.dot.state.mn.us/images/08/oct/8-expo300.jpg

4. Operating the Skid Loader • The operator should understand the following: • Movement Controls • Steering Controls • Lift Controls Left Foot Control Pedal Right Foot Control Pedal http://www.orcbs.msu.edu/occupational/programs_guidelines/non_reg_vehicles/skidsteer.pdf

5. 1 seat and 1 seat belt = 1 operator Lower safety restraint bar and fasten seat belt every time! Be sure surrounding area is clear of people, animals, etc. Don’t work around overhead utility lines Lower load bucket for travel Use slow speeds on rough ground Don’t overload bucket! Exceeding capacity may result in serious accidents! When moving up a slope, keep heaviest weight up hill. With empty bucket, back up the hill; with full bucket, drive forward up hill Avoid crossing steep slopes Avoid ditches and stream banks to prevent overturns Lower boom and bucket, stop engine, set brake before getting off machine Do not reach outside of cab while skid steer is running Skid Steer Safety

6. ATV’s and Utility Vehicles • ATV’s or “All Terrain Vehicles” can travel in rough terrain, steep slopes, rutted mountain roads, and muddy conditions • Some ATV design features include: • Stability • Suspension • Drive Lines • Power and Speed

7. ATV’s • Can be used for many purposes • 3 wheelers are far less stable than 4 wheelers • ATV’s are not toys, but rather POWERFUL machines http://www.alaskajournal.com/images/080403/agriculture.jpg

8. ATV Operation and Safety • Do not carry passengers • Know the machine’s limitations • Wear full-face shield helmet (no shield, wear goggles) • Over ankle shoes with sturdy heels/soles • Gloves and long sleeves • Lights, reflectors, flags • Check state codes for ag. use • Avoid public road use

9. Safe Utility Vehicle Use • No operator younger than 16 • More cargo = center of gravity raised • Secure load from shifting sideways • Avoid steep slopes • Reduce speed on rough terrain • Second rider in passenger seat only • Don’t drive in ditches/embankments • Use tractor, skid steer,loader, and ATV skillsto drive utility vehicle http://www.e-kmi.com/Archives/pre050105/clubcar_0603.JPG

10. http://www.powersportstv.com/adminuploadedimage/400x200/2006_JohnDeere_Gator_CX.jpghttp://www.powersportstv.com/adminuploadedimage/400x200/2006_JohnDeere_Gator_CX.jpg Drive with Care! http://cdn-5.psndealer.com/e2/dealersite/images/seeboldsports/polaris_razor400.jpg Utility Vehicles can easily overturn at high speeds while making sharp turns! http://www.golfcarcatalog.com/newsletter/images/4-13-06/Utility%20Images/CubCadet4x4D-wROPS.jpg http://www.keitrucksjapan.com/images/KAWASAKI%20MULE.jpg