The backhoe-loader is one of
the most popular pieces of
construction equipment in the
world, which should place safe
operation as a top priority.
Because the person in the
operator’s seat is the one
responsible for what the
machine does, responsibility for
safety largely rests on that
individual’s shoulders.Check
out the machine you're
going to operate. There are
two obvious reasons for
doing this: one is so you're
familiar with the machine,
and the other is to make
sure it is suitable for the job.
It is impossible to compile a list of safety precautions that will cover all situations that may be encountered.
Precautions must be followed as a part of your daily routine. Safety is your primary responsibility, since any piece
of equipment is only as safe as the person at the controls. Two common causes of injury or death: 1.Being struck
by the moving machine, swinging booms, or other machine components 2.Being struck by quick-disconnect
excavator buckets that unexpectedly detach from the excavator stick.
In addition to excavation and trenching operations, backhoes and trackhoes are used to load and unload dirt and
material, such as pipe, lumber etc. Each of these different operations may bring personnel into close proximity
with moving equipment and dangerous pinch point situations. Equipment operators must be aware of all
personnel assigned to the work area, as well as any personnel that may be enter the work area. Spotters are to
assist the operator in identifying these personnel.
Use the handrail or steps when mounting the machine. Don't use the controls as handholds. Put your seat belt on
snugly, set the controls in neutral or park with the parking brake on. Never start the back hoe from any position
other than from the driver's seat. After the vehicle is started and warming up, check your brakes and other
equipment to make sure it's functioning properly. One of the first safety rules we'll discuss is riders. Absolutely no
riders on back hoe loader equipment.
When driving, slow speed is safe speed. Often 5 miles per hour is posted on the job site but use your good
judgment and drive slowly for the conditions. There are always people walking around so take it slow. Be aware
that braking conditions may vary due to mud, loose gravel or other conditions. There are always obstacles on the
job such as rocks, stones and debris. Soft soil conditions exist around edges and deep holes. When operating the
loader be sure the back hoe is secured in the upright position and carry the loader bucket low, close to the ground.
This allows maximum visibility and stability. Stay in gear when traveling downhill. Use the engine's RPM to help
maintain control. Before beginning the back hoe digging process, lower the stabilizers so the wheels are off the
ground leveling the unit. Check the boom swings to avoid hitting anyone or anything that may be in the boom
path. Remember, you're permitted to operate the backhoe loader only from the driver's position. Never when
you're on the ground. When operating on a slope, be sure the unit is level with the stabilizers. Swing loads uphill
to avoid a balance problem while on the slope and place soil well away from the edge of the trench. When loading
dump trucks, the dump truck driver must be out of the cab and away from the process. Never swing a load over
the cab. Prior to digging be sure all utilities have been located and pot-holed to make their location. Hitting a
power line is extremely hazardous and costly. If you're not sure, check with your foreman before digging. Damage
to water mains, telephone, or cable TV lines have a tendency to make headlines and headaches. If you must use a
road or highway be sure your slow moving sign is in place and always hand or turn signals. Follow the rules of the
road. If traffic gets backed up behind you, pull over and let them pass. When transporting your back hoe, refer to
the manufacturer's manual for proper tie-down and loading procedures. Will the trailer or truck handle the load?
Be sure to check the tie down chains for worn or damaged links. Low binders have always been an accident
waiting to happen. Avoid using the traditional snap binders as they require cheater-bar to tighten. Cheater bars
are not authorized and they tend to cause accidents. Use a rachet-type binder. Back hoes get a lot of wear and
tear and maintenance is required from time to time. Be sure the boom is adequately blocked to avoid a serious
injury in case it falls. Never rely upon hydraulics to hold the boom. It must be blocked to avoid a fall. Chalk the
tires when working on the vehicle and keep the bucket teeth in good shape. Naturally, never smoke when
refueling or handling fuel and turn the engine off as well as electrical or spark-producing motors. Ground the fuel
nozzle or funnel against the filler neck to avoid static electricity. Check the fire extinguishers that is located in the
cab. Be sure it is charged and ready for emergencies.
•Fill the fuel tank while engine is off and cool. Never fill inside a building. Do not smoke. Wipe up any spills
immediately.
•Check the machine daily for broken, missing, or damaged parts. Make the necessary repairs or replacements.
•Keep the machine clean -- especially steps, hand rails, pedals, grab irons, and floor of the cab. Slippery surfaces
are very hazardous.
•Remove or secure loose items in the cab that could interfere with operating the controls.
•Check the work area for hidden holes, obstacles, drop-offs, etc. Clear children, pets, and bystanders from the
area.
Don’t forget to inspect the Backhoe bucket area items
Know the weight of your UNIT and its attachments
Ensure everyone on site has talked about these subjects and knows the risks associated
•Check overhead for utility lines, roofs, and other obstacles.
• Look at the location of the operator's controls, understanding that the machine is operated from
a forward and backward facing position.
• Facing forward, you will see a steering wheel, shifter, front loader control lever, brake
pedals (left and right independent brakes), gas pedal, and control switches for
accessories like lights, emergency flashers, horn, emergency brake actuator, ignition
switch, gauges, and other items. From this position, a backhoe looks very similar to
other tractors.
• Facing the rear (the seat swivels 180 degrees), you should see the boom controls. There
are two different boom control configurations, the three stick that includes foot controls
to swing the bucket, and the joystick controls, that operate all the backhoe boom
controls with two joysticks. Also, there will be two auxiliary controls, either mounted
paired on one side of the seat, or in front of the boom control sticks, that raise and
lower the stabilizers.
• Look at the safety equipment. Experienced backhoe operators check the safety equipment at the
beginning of each shift to make sure it is in good condition. This requires some knowledge of how
the safety equipment works, but even a novice should be able to observe things like the seat belt
condition, the fire extinguisher charge, and be able to see obvious damage such as cracked
members in the rollover protection system and missing guards.
• Look at the general condition of the machine. Check the tires to make sure they are properly
inflated and show no outward signs of damage, look for oil leaks, damaged hydraulic hoses, and
other obvious signs of abuse or dangerous conditions.
• Look at the size of the machine. Backhoes range in size from small attachments for lawn tractors,
to machines weighing over 12,000 pounds with turbo-charged diesel engines. You will have to
decide how large a machine you will need to perform the project you have in mind.
• Look at other features of the machine you will operate, like air conditioning, four wheel drive,
extend-a-hoes, and the various special attachments available on these machines.
Ironically, accidents often involve experienced operators. One reason is the overconfidence that comes with years
of experience without an incident. According to P bar Y Safety Consultants, a firm specializing in heavy equipment
operator training, working too close to an edge and operating on steep or uneven grades are the leading causes of
accidents.
Read the operator's manual of the machine you will operate. There are substantial differences in backhoes, from
the location of controls to the actual cranking procedure and the gauge cluster location. Obviously, this article is
general in nature and doesn't cover every make and model of backhoes; each backhoe has its own features with
which you should be familiar.
Clearly, operators need to think about every single move they make before they make it. But some loads change
the center of gravity and affect machine stability. Slow, steady movement is the safest way to maintain control, P
bar Y Safety Consultants advises. If the machine starts to feel unstable, stop everything until you regain control.
Always keep the load as close to the ground as possible and don’t raise it until you arrive at the spot where you are
going to set it.
Before you start that backhoe B L O W A F check
Battery (starting and charging system)
Light (lighting system)
Oil (lubricating system)
Water (cooling system)
Air (intake and exhaust system)
Fuel (fuel system)
Now Crank the engine, allowing it to warm up for a few minutes before attempting to engage the transmission or
operating any controls. This warming-up time will ensure that the hydraulic fluid will begin to circulate and warm
up.
Check to make sure all attachments are clear of the ground, including the stabilizers, the front bucket, and the
backhoe boom. If you need to raise them to allow the machine to be driven, use the controls delicately until you
have a feel for them. This is especially true of the back boom, since raising or swinging it without the stabilizers
down can shake the tractor violently.
Release the parking brake, and shift the transmission into forward, then drive it slowly around while you get the
hang of steering and braking the machine. Running in low or second gear while practice driving the machine is a
good idea; even experienced operators only use third or high gear on very smooth, flat surfaces, since the balance
of the machine makes it difficult to steer at high speeds.
Raise and lower the front end loader bucket
(if equipped) to get the feel of it. The control lever for this attachment is located on the operator's left while sitting
facing forward. Pulling straight toward the rear raises the bucket, pushing straight forward lowers it, pulling it
toward the center of the machine scoops, and pushing outward dumps it.
Using the Controls of a Backhoe
Generally speaking, there will be two different controls with the cab of a backhoe, one on the left and one on the
right hand side.
Both controls will be able to move and control in all four directions with the left side controlling the boom while
the right is for the dipper-stick and bucket.
The basic operations are as follows:
Left: pull towards you and boom comes up
Left: Push control away and boom goes down
Right: Push left and boom swings left
Right: Push right and boom swings right
Dipper Stick Controls
Right: Pull right hand lever towards you and the dipper-stick comes towards you
Right: Push it away and dipper-stick goes up
Bucket Controls
Right: Push left and the bucket curls, i.e. for scooping up
Right: Push to the right and the bucket extends out, i.e. for emptying
Don't forget to park the backhoe flat ground with the loader and backhoe buckets on the ground when you are
done. Also relieve hydraulic pressure by working the controls before turning the backhoe off.
Of course, when considering how to operate a backhoe there is more to it than simply pushing the controls with
safety procedures and operating practice being on major importance in the excavation industry.
Safety first
Safe practices should begin before the machine is even started. First, perform a walkaround inspection. Next,
make sure all functions are operating properly and the machine is set for safe, comfortable operation.
“After crawling into the cab, make sure the parking brake is engaged,” says Terry Penney, “Then make sure all of
the controls are moving free. Get the seat into a position where you can reach all of the controls that you need to
reach.” Then fasten the seat belt. “The machines are rated to be able to roll over, and the safest place for the
operator in the event of a machine rollover is sitting in the seat.”
The importance of fastening the seatbelt, adding, “Make sure you are familiar with all the controls. If you are going
to road the machine, make sure your independent brake pedals are locked together. Then, adjust the seat and the
steering wheel into the correct position for comfort and for being able to reach all controls safely.
Set the throttle to rev the engine to about 850 Rotations Per Minute (not too fast until you get the hang of the
controls).
Lower the stabilizers until they raise the rear of the tractor so the back wheels no longer touch the ground, then
lower the front bucket to its limit, raising the front wheels also. You may find you have to lower one stabilizer
further than the other to level the rear of the machine, depending on whether you're on a slope, or if the soil is
less stable on one side than the other.
Unlock the back boom. Do this by pulling forward (towards you, and the front of the tractor) on the left control
lever, then pushing if away from you when it pauses at the highest point, while holding the unlocking lever (usually
on the right floor board) with your foot.
Push the left lever further outward after the boom is unlocked to lower the main boom, or nearest section of the
backhoe boom. Push outward on the right lever to extend the lower boom (outer section, with the bucket
attached) away from you (this will actually raise the second boom) so that the bucket is extending outward.
Position the bucket over the spot you want to begin digging, then push the right control stick to the right to open
the bucket for scooping, then lower the main boom to engage the soil. Push the left lever to lower the boom into
the soil, while pulling the right lever to drag the bucket into the soil in a scooping motion, then begin rolling the
bucket forward by moving the right control lever to the left. You will find with practice that you start to coordinate
these movements, to achieve a fluid movement of the backhoe.
Raise the boom with the left control arm by pulling it. Usually you raise the bucket with the right control by
swinging it to your left to keep it filled while you lift it from the hole.
Swing the bucket to the side you're going to dump the load of dirt you scooped from the hole by pushing the left
control lever in the direction you want the boom to swing. Once you have the load over the spot you want to
dump it, just push the right lever to your left and the buck will open, allowing its contents to dump out.
Swing the bucket back to the starting position by pushing the left control stick the direction you want the boom to
go, then repeat the process. Practicing this operation is the basic and safe way of learning how to operate the
backhoe.
“Make sure the boom is locked and the swing lock is in place if you are going to road the machine,” he continues.
“Survey your surroundings once again before moving the machine, and sound your horn before moving off. Before
you start to dig, make sure you are aware which control pattern has been selected for your machine (backhoe or
excavator pattern).”
One of the biggest dangers of using the loader is vehicle and pedestrian traffic around you. Checking to ensure the
backup alarm is working must be part of your routine daily inspection.
Create A stable digging platform
Backhoe-loader stabilizers serve two purposes. “You want stability over the side and you also want to stop the
machine from sliding around when you are digging a trench,” says Terry Penney.
According to P bar Y Safety Consultants, the best setup for backhoe work is when the stabilizers are spread to
their full width and the loader bucket is in solid contact with the ground. If the tires are carrying the weight of the
machine, it will bounce slightly, transmitting vibration to the operator and into the controls. This causes the
machine to shake even more. For extra holding power, roll the bucket all the way over and dig in the cutting edge
and sill plate.
“You really should not ever use the backhoe without the stabilizers down,” Terry Penney emphasizes. “You will
pick them up to move a machine when repositioning for trenching, but you really need to have the most stable
platform you can get for digging and lifting purposes. The only way to stabilize a backhoe is to put those stabilizers
down on firm ground.”
“We also recommend the front bucket to be down, lifting the front of the machine for maximum stability.
However, for some applications, it is possible to operate with the front bucket up off the ground but not fully
raised up in the air.” Sometimes the ground conditions are too soft, causing stabilizers to sink in. “In this case, you
should use blocks or cribbing so you can get a good footing for the stabilizers,” says Terry Penney.
Prepare for excavations ( after you have confirmed and verified the one call site assessment and approvals)
Always call before you dig to have the local buried utility locator service mark buried utilities. There can be
everything down there from telephone and electrical transmission cables, to natural gas and liquid petroleum gas
lines. Digging a trench or excavation takes proper preparation. Whenever you go to a new jobsite, walk it with
someone who is familiar with it, advises P bar Y Safety Consultants. Ground depressions can be clues to things like
old, buried storage tanks or a drain tile that has been caved in. You need to know everything you possibly can
about what is down there before you stick that bucket in the ground for the first time.
Remember, the operator is responsible for the safety of everyone in the trench or any other excavation. Make sure
you place spoils in the most appropriate location depending on the jobsite and soil conditions. Per OH&S
requirements, the minimum distance of the spoil pile from the trench is 2 ft. But with many types of soil, it is much
farther than that.
Safely Lift heavy loads
Backhoe lifting operations require extra care. “It is not just the lifting strength of the backhoe, it is the stability of
the machine,” says Terry Penney. “We pride ourselves on having a stable machine. We have a very wide stabilizer
stance to get that stability even higher.”
“1. Always wear a seatbelt when you are operating the machine.
2. Do not allow your co-workers to ride in the equipment.
3. Keep any bystanders clear of your equipment while it is operation.
4. Stick to the manufacturers rated capacity.
5. Never allow anyone under the arm of the backhoe or to pass anything through the arms of the backhoe.
6. Do not set up on loose or soft ground, it could cause the backhoe to overbalance.
7. Ensure that everyone is clear of the machine when starting the equipment.
8. Ensure that the machine is well maintained.
9. Wear your hard hat and hearing protection.
10. The boom should always be centered and raised during transportation. ”
“A best practice for heavy lifting is to have the machine as stable as possible,”. “The machine should be level with
the front and the rear tires raised clear of the ground by around 6 in. Keep the stabilizers spread as far apart as
possible without letting any tires touch the ground. Beware of the ground conditions under your stabilizers.” Flip
stabilizers to get maximum flotation in soft underfoot conditions.
The operator needs to know how much the load weighs and how much can be safely picked up at a given angle.
“Before you lift, check the spec sheet so you know what the machine is capable of lifting — the distances and
heights, etc.,” says Terry Penney. “All of those specs are done with the boom straight off the back of the machine,
and typically you are lifting over the side to pick something up. Perform a test lift to make sure the machine is
stable before you start moving the [object] around.” “Keep the weight as close to you as possible by keeping the
boom close in,”. “Use the stick function for maximum capability, and use your extendible stick if needed to move
the weight outward. And be sure any laborers are well clear of the object being lifted.”
Don’t use homemade rigging. “Lift using proper lifting equipment and use the integrated lifting eye on the power
link of the backhoe,”.
“Use the shortest chain possible so you are not lifting the dipper all the way up to get the load off the ground,”
Terry Penney recommends. “Have the chain strapped as short as you can.”
“Lift at low idle for maximum control and for being able to communicate to your ground workers.”
Lowering the engine rpm reduces the flow going through the hydraulics. “The backhoe will move slower,” Terry
Penney explains. “You still have all of the power there because power is pressure. You just slow the engine down
and move nice and steady, so the load is not swinging around on the end of the chain.”
Transporting materials
You will often see operators move a bucket full of material around with the bucket too high in the air.
“When you lift the bucket way up in the air, you lose your visibility and you raise the center of gravity so you have
a more unstable machine,” says Terry Penney. “The most cautious thing to do is to keep the bucket as low as
possible — a foot off the ground, depending upon the terrain.”
Also be cautious going up and down hills. “Avoid going across the hill with a loaded bucket,” says Terry Penney.
“Make sure the bucket is pointing up the hill to keep the machine balanced. If you have to come down the hill,
reverse down it... The last thing you want to do is come down the hill with a fully loaded bucket, hit the brakes and
all of the weight goes toward the loader.”
Many of the problems encountered are the result of operators trying to run too quickly. “Many machines have ride
control and the operators just drive faster across the site,” says Terry Penney. “They are running over uneven
terrain too quickly and bouncing all over the place. People try to push the machine quicker and quicker and they
compromise safety.”
Understand the limits of the backhoe-loader you are operating. “Do not carry more than the machine can safely
handle,”. “Depending upon what materials you are handling, carry them in a level or racked-back position. Use ride
control, if equipped, and keep loads as close to the ground as possible until you have to raise them up to load or
dump.”
Operation on slopes
Slopes present challenges for almost any type of construction equipment, including backhoe-loaders.
“The stability of a backhoe-loader is at its greatest risk on a hill when it is being driven, not operated,”. “When you
are in operating position, you should try to level the machine as much as possible using the independent stabilizers
and your front bucket.”
When operating on a hill, take special precautions. Swinging a bucket of dirt downhill changes the center of
gravity in a negative direction. “You should always push a bucket up the hill and dump the spoil on the uphill side
of the trench at a distance where it doesn’t roll back into the trench,” says Terry Penney. “We all realize in real-
world applications that is not always possible. If you do have to swing the loaded bucket downhill, be very slow
and keep your bucket low to the ground.”
Pay careful attention when repositioning on a slope. “If you are trenching, the machine is facing uphill and you are
ready to move, you should put the hoe into its tucked, stored position,”. “Turn your seat to the forward-facing,
ready to drive position before you raise the stabilizers. This will give you control over the brakes and transmission,
preventing the machine from rolling backwards.”
SAFE STOPPING PROCEDURE
•Park the machine on level ground if possible and set the parking brake. Place transmission in park if so equipped.
•Lower the loader and backhoe buckets to the ground.
•Stop the engine and remove the key.
•Work the hydraulic controls to relieve pressure.
•Wait until all motion has stopped and then dismount carefully using steps and safety holds.
•Do not jump from the machine.
Training Backhoe/Loader/Trackhoe Operator Safety Training
You shall learn:
•OH&S
•Pre-operational inspection
•Familiarisation of the Excavator
•Handling characteristics
•Manoeuvring of the Backhoe
•Backhoe Digging
•Backhoe Levelling
•Backhoe Trenching
•Backhoe operational assessment
•Safe Operation of the Backhoe
•Machine and General Safety
•Backhoe Terminology
•Start-up and Shut-down procedures
•Operating Procedures
•Bulk excavation
•Loading materials on to trucks
•Backfilling trenches
•Leveling with the front bucket
•Lifting Loads
Conduct of Operators:
To ensure that backhoes are operated in a safe and responsible manner at all times and in all places, to prevent
incidents, injury to people and/or damage to property.
Description:
General backhoe operation.
SAFETY EQUIPMENT REQUIRED:
- seat belt
- appropriate CSA/ANSI approved footwear
- CSA approved hearing protection when required
- work gloves (optional)
- safety glasses (optional)
- safety vest or reflective coveralls
Procedure:
1. Seat belts shall be worn while operating the backhoe.
2. Excessive speed or careless driving will not be tolerated.
3. Backhoe floor shall be kept free of tools and debris.
4. When ascending or descending the backhoe, face the steps provided on the machine, and use the
handrails or hand holds.
5. The operator shall not permit any person to practice with, or ride on the backhoe, unless authorized to do
so by the supervisor.
6. Before digging, the stabilizers shall be firmly in place.
7. The operator shall keep his swamper in sight, or know where he is AT ALL TIMES.
8. Operator shall ensure all utility lines and cables are located and marked before excavation starts, as per
the “Utility Lines – Working Around Underground Utility Lines” Safe Work Practice.
9. When digging a trench, a proper slope shall be maintained to prevent the sides from falling in, before a
worker enters the trench. See “Excavating / Trenching” Safe Work Practice.
10. A proper backhoe shall be used for trenching, and shall not be used beyond its manufacturer’s rated
capacity.
11. When the backhoe is left unattended, the buckets shall be lowered to the ground.
12. Defects shall be reported to the supervisor.
13. When traveling with the backhoe, the buckets shall be in the lowest height possible to prevent tipping.
14. Clearances from power lines as outlined in the “Power Line – Working Around Overhead Power Lines”
Safe Work Practice shall be kept at all times.
15. Proper signage shall be placed on the road prior to backhoe operations being performed. Refer to
“Signage – Working on Roadway” Safe Work Practice or “Signage – Working in Ditch” Safe Work Practice.
16. Hearing protection shall be worn when needed.
17. Operator should review manufacturer’s operator’s manual prior to operating backhoe.
18. Employees working around backhoe equipment should wear hard hats at all times.
When digging a trench, coordinate the action of the boom, dipper and bucket. It may take a while to get the hang
of it. Every situation will be a little different, but here are a few tips:
* When digging a trench, you can set the bucket teeth at a shallow angle and let the dipper do most of the work.
Or you can set the bucket teeth at a steeper angle and fill the bucket using a combination of boom and bucket
action.
* Continue digging a few inches deeper each time until the trench is at the desired depth. Then move the machine
backward using the following procedure:
* Raise the boom and bring it in line with the center of the loader.
* Curl the bucket and pull in the dipper.
* Retract the stabilizers.
* Press the traction-lock override button or its equivalent on your machine and slowly move the unit back a few
feet from the trench. Don't move back too far, or you will decrease the maximum digging depth or run out of
reach.
Dig safely As you dig, keep these safety tips in mind:
* Keep bystanders out of the swing area. * Keep your feet behind the shields at all times. * Never operate your
backhoe from the ground. * The boom, dipper and bucket are very powerful and can cause serious injury or death
if you don't follow proper precautions. * Stay away from overhangs or ditches and do not dig under stabilizers. * If
you are working on a slope, keep the machine level. Try to dump uphill to maintain stability. * If you need to pick
up an object using the backhoe, keep the load balanced. Swing the load low and slow. Keep the load close to the
loader for stability. Never swing the load over anyone.
Anytime you need to leave the backhoe, lower the bucket or attachment to the ground, stop the engine, remove
the ignition key and exit the backhoe.
When you are ready to drive to the next job site, make sure that you have fully raised both the front and rear
stabilizers and you've put the backhoe seat into the "down" position for better visibility. Install the transport
locking pin before driving to the next job.
1.1. The operator shall not engage in any practice, which will divert his/her attention while operating any
piece of equipment.
1.2. When mentally or physically unfit, an operator shall not operate any piece of equipment.
1.3. The operator shall respond to signals from an appointed signal person. The operator shall not move the
load until signaled to do so by the designated person. If a signal person is not required, the operator is responsible
for the safe operation of the equipment. The operator shall respond, at once, to a signal to stop regardless of who
gives the signal.
1.4. Each operator is responsible for those operations under his/her direct control. Whenever there is any
doubt as to safety, the operator shall consult with a supervisor before continuing the operation.
1.5. Before starting the equipment, a pre-start inspection must be conducted. This inspection must be
documented. The following items must be inspected to determine safe operating condition.
1.5.1. Tires
1.5.2. Engine fluid levels
1.5.3. Hydraulic fluid levels
1.5.4. Safety information signs
1.5.5. Fire extinguisher
1.5.6. Condition of cab glass (if applicable)
1.6. After the equipment is started, the following items must be inspected.
1.6.1. Operation of brakes
1.6.2. Steering mechanism
1.6.3. Horn
1.6.4. Back up alarm
1.6.5. Operating controls
1.6.6. Hydraulic hoses (under operating conditions)
1.6.7. Lights
1.7. Before leaving the equipment unattended, the operator shall:
1.7.1. Land all attachments and loads.
1.7.2. Set all brakes and other locking devices.
1.7.3. Place controls in the neutral or off position.
1.7.4. Stop the engine.
1.8. Any defects that may create an equipment system failure must be corrected prior to placing equipment in
service.
1.8.1. A “Do No Operate” tag must be placed in clear view on the main cab access door, Ignition key slot, or
steering wheel or operation controls anytime service work can be performed.
1.9. All manufactures recommendations and safety devices must be used while servicing or repairing
equipment.
1.10. Seatbelts will be used except when digging in an area that is known to contain loaded lines.
1.11. Equipment must not be operated inside of the electrical MSAD ( minimum safe approach distance). This
distance is as follows:
Voltage (kV) Minimum Clearance
<= 50 kV 10 ft.
> 50 kV 10 ft. + 4 inches per kV over 50 kV
Know your blind zones
One of the big safety challenges for equipment operators is to maintain constant awareness of machine blind
spots. For many types of machinery, these unseen areas can be quite large.
Written & Performance Test For Backhoe/Loader/Trackhoe Operators’
Employee:____________________________ Date:____________ Time:______ am pm.
True or False (Must get a minimum of 80% questions correct)
1. Spotters are required to assist operators in recognizing hazards.
2. Operators must be aware of the swing path of the machine and must not swing loads
over any personnel in the area.
3. When a backhoe/loader/trackhoe is used for material handling the operator must
respond to the hand signals of the Spotter and stop at once, regardless of who gives the signal.
4. The operator is not responsible for keeping personnel from entering the area around
the boom of the backhoe/trackhoe.
5. As long as you are on level ground you can just turn the engine off and set the brakes
without worry.
6. The backhoe/trackhoe shall only be operated from the operator’s seat, which must be
locked in the appropriate position.
7. The Operator can use the backhoe/loader/trackhoe transport personnel.
8. The safe operating distance from energized power lines is the same regardless of the
voltage in the power line.
9. A “Do Not Operate” tag must be attached to the backhoe/loader/trackhoe anytime
service work is performed.
10. Loaders are equipped with a safety lock on the lift ram of the bucket. Anytime the
bucket is raised for working on the engine this safety lock must be used.
11. When traveling on an incline with a loaded bucket the load should always be pointed uphill.
12. All equipment is required to have at least a 5 lbs dry chemical Fire Extinguisher mounted
on the equipment at an accessible location.
13. Getting the job done quickly is the top priority for an operator and they should operate
at the fastest speed possible.
14. The operating area of equipment should be kept free of debris, trash and tools.
15. If a good walk through inspection was performed yesterday only a quick check is
required today.
Backhoe/Loader/Trackhoe Checklist
1. Completed training and written testing.
2. Operator possesses physical & mental capabilities
3. Knowledge and understanding of specific equipment
4. Perform and document Daily Inspection on Daily Inspection Report (3E-0095)
5. Knowledge of the equipment capabilities and capacities
6. Ability to recognize mechanical discrepancies and problems of the equipment
7. Knowledge of Elkhorn’s safe operating practices and procedures 3E-0000
8. Seat belt used
9. Shows familiarity with the equipment controls and refueling procedures.
10. Gave proper signals and or communication when turning.
11. Slowed down at intersections.
12. Sounded horn at intersections.
13. Obeyed signs.
14. Kept a clear view of direction of travel.
15. Turned corners correctly — was aware of rear end swing.
16. Yielded to pedestrians and or fellow workers.
17. Drove under control and within proper traffic lanes.
18. Knowledge and understanding of “One Call” procedures
19. Knowledge of excavation regulations ( provincial and or state level)
20. Knowledge of soil classification, benching, sloping and shoring of trenches
21. Travels with bucket positioned low as to not obstruct operators vision
22. Maintains “Three Point Contact" when mounting or dismounting equipment
23. Lowers bucket to ground when not in use
24. Places shift controls in park and engage parking brake before existing equipment
25. Does not actuate controls from other than operator’s seat
26. Does not allow workers to be under loads or within swing areas
27. Travels on job-site at an acceptable speed
28. Alert to workers in equipment operation area
29. Aware of overhead obstacles such as, power lines, trees or buildings...Et
30. Utilize spotters when excavating
31. Utilize stabilizers as required
32. Travel with “loaded” bucket uphill
33. Travel with “empty” bucket downhill
34. Knowledge of loading, unloading and transporting equipment
Pass Fail Evaluator______________________________________
Employee Name:__________________________________________ Date:_________________
Additional remarks / Limitations:___________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
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