1

LOADER/BACKHOESAFETY TRAINING

Objective: To introduce the course to students.

Give a general introduction to the course and topics to be discussed.

Introduce the instructor and students and discuss any administrative matters that need to be addressed.

2

THREE BASIC COMPONENTS

BackhoeTractor

Loader

Objective: To familiarize students with the basic components of the loader/backhoe. Even though for most of the students this may seem elementary, reviewing the basic components on this slide and the next establishes a starting point for the course.

The basic component of the loader/backhoe its the tractor. Most tractors used in loader/backhoes are now designed to be used in conjunction with the loader attachment and the backhoe attachment. Earlier loader/backhoes used a standard tractor for this purpose.The loader is attached to the front of the tractor and is arms are raised and lowered by hydraulic cylinders. A bucket is attached to the lifting arms and has a hydraulic cylinder for tipping the bucket forward and backward. The capacity of the bucket varies depending on the size of the tractor. Buckets can be fitted with teeth to increase the machine’s digging ability.The backhoe is attached to the rear of the tractor by a hinge arrangement which allows the boom and bucket assembly to swing to the right or left. Swinging this assembly is accomplished through the use of two hydraulic cylinders which function in a push-pull manner. Also, boom, stick and bucket functions use hydraulic cylinders.Stabilizers are attached to each side of the backhoe to provide stability when the boom is swung from one side to the other.

3

BASIC COMPONENTS

Backhoe

StickCab

Tractor

LoaderStabilizer Legs

Boom

Bucket

Objective: To further familiarize the students with the components of the loader/backhoe and its common names.

Continue from the previous slide to identify the components of the loader/backhoe.

4

PRE-OPERATION CHECKLIST

� Check engine, coolant, & hydraulic fluid levels� Check for broken and/or dirty windows� Check all functions for smooth operations� Check transmission for smooth operation� Check brakes� Inspect hydraulic hoses� Check that all safety devices & guards in place & functional� Inspect bolts, welds, & pins for proper condition� Inspect Rollover Protective Structure� Inspect seat belt� Check tires for condition, inflation, & missing valve caps� Inspect all lights, gauges, horn & alarms� Inspect engine compartment for leaks & trash build-up

Refer to the machine’s Operation & Maintenance Manualfor a complete list of inspection items.

Objective: To list the principal parts of the loader/backhoe that should be inspected before each shift prior to the machine being used.

The above inspection checklist is a general list of items needing inspection prior to a machine being operated. Remind students to refer to the operator’s manual for a complete list of inspection items.

When a machine is used by several operators in the course of a shift, each operator should perform a pre-operation inspection before operating the machine during that shift. Even though this will seem redundant, the operator needs to insure that the machine is safe to operate.

5

INSPECTING THE TRACTORCheck the following:

• Engine oil & coolant• Hydraulic fluid levels• Glass for dirt & damage• Transmission for smooth operation• Brakes • Safety devices• Seat belt• Tires for condition & inflation• Lights, gauges, horn & alarms• Cab for cleanliness• All controls for proper labels

Control linkages and values can becomeworn, fouled or damaged. Investigate anyabnormal functions to prevent loss of control.

Objective: To conduct a more detailed discussion of the inspection of the tractor part of the loader/backhoe.

Discuss each of the items shown in the checklist above. Emphasize the importance of consistently checking these items. Minor injuries to the operator are often a result of poor housekeeping. Dirty glass is common during excavating and can seriously affect visibility. Keeping window cleaning supplies on the machine can greatly decrease this problem.

6

INSPECTING THE BACKHOECheck for the following:

• Damaged stabilizer arms & pads• Bent or damaged hydraulic cylinders• Worn hinge pins & bushings• Damaged & leaking hydraulic lines• Smooth operation through all functions• Damaged or loose teeth on bucket• Worn stick extension slide pads• All welds for cracks

Stabilizer

Hinge & SwingPins

Hydraulic Lines, CylindersBucket

Objective: To review the backhoe components which need inspecting and servicing. The backhoe assembly attaches to the back of the tractor. The boom assembly swings on a hinge pin which needs to be inspected for damage and proper lubrication. Check for damage to the hydraulic cylinders that swing the boom from side to side. Look for leaking fluid around the seals and hoses.The boom attaches to the swing unit by a hinge pin and is raised and lowered by the boom hydraulic cylinder. Due to the high stresses imposed on this hinge pin, frequent lubrication is necessary. Also check for wear to the hinge bushing and pin. Inspect the boom for damage and distortions.The stabilizers are attached to the backhoe by means of a hinge and hydraulic cylinder. Check the hinge pin and bushing for wear. The pads need to be inspected for damage. It is important for proper ground support that the pads are flat. Check for leaking fluid coming from the hydraulic cylinder and fittings. The cylinder rod is exposed when extended, and its surface susceptible to being scarred and damaged. Inspect the rod for nicks.The stick hinges from the end of the boom and is raised and lowered by a hydraulic cylinder. Check for hinge wear, fluid leaks and damage to this section. In some backhoes the stick has an extension section. This section is extended and retracted by a hydraulic cylinder. Check this assembly for damage and smooth operation.Inspect the bucket hinge area for wear and damaged components. For buckets equipped with teeth, make sure they are firmly attached.

7

INSPECTING THE LOADER

Check for the following:

• Damaged lift arms• Bent or damaged hydraulic cylinders• Worn hinge pins & bushings• Damaged & leaking hydraulic lines• Smooth operation through all functions• Damaged or loose teeth on bucket• Bent or damaged bucket links• All welds for cracks

Special Attachment Points

Lift Arms & Linkages

Bucket & Hinge Pins

Objective: To review the components of the loader which need inspecting and servicing.The loader assembly attaches to the front of the tractor by two lift arms and hydraulic cylinders. The arm hinges need to be inspected for wear and proper lubrication. Each arm has a hydraulic lift cylinder used to raise and lower the bucket. Inspect the cylinders for fluid leaks and damage to the cylinder rods.Depending on design, the bucket is tilted fore and aft by one or more hydraulic cylinders. Inspect the bucket hinges as well as the hydraulic cylinder hinges for wear and lubrication. Look for leaking fluid and other damage.

8

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

The operator’s manualis required to be on themachine at all times.

Objective: To review the operator’s manual with students.

The operator’s manual is required to be on the machine at all times, intact and readable. It is best to take time to review the contents of the manual with students at this time.Each operator is to have read and understood the manual before operating a machine.

9

TYPICAL WEIGHT OF COMPONENTS

LOADER2,200 LBS

TRACTOR6,500 LBS

BACKHOE4,000 LBS

Objective: To illustrate how much a loader/backhoe weighs and how the weight is distributed.

A typical loader/backhoe found on a job site can weigh from 12,000 to 16,000 pounds. Emphasize how heavy the machine is and because of its size how much potential it has for doing damage when not properly operated. Because of their weight, great care is required when removing or installing a loader and/or a backhoe. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use proper equipment for handling these components.

10

As the backhoe is raised and extended, the machine’s Center of Gravity, C.G., moves to the rear and upward. This decreases the stability of the machine.

C.G.

MACHINE STABILITY

Center of Gravity

Objective: To show how stability of the loader/backhoe is affected by raising the backhoe.

As a backhoe is raised and extended, the center of gravity of the machine rises vertically and moves toward the rear of the machine. This vertical change in the center of gravity affects the machine’s lateral or side to side stability. Also, when a backhoe is extended and swung to the side, lateral stability decreases.

11

MACHINE STABILITY

Stability decreases as slope increases. Increase in

ground pressure

The distance from Center of Gravity and tire is decreasing.

Objective: To show how stability of a machine changes as it traverses a slope.

When a loader/backhoe is on level ground and the backhoe is located directly behind the machine, the machine’s center of gravity is centered between the wheels as shown in the left diagram. As the traversed slope increases, the machine’s stability decreases because the horizontal distance of the center of gravity relative to the wheels on the downhill side decreases. If slope is increased to the point that the center of gravity moves beyond the wheel, the machine will tip over.Traveling fast over sloping ground that is rough can cause the machine to bounce and rock from side, to side thus increasing the probability of a rollover.

12

MACHINE STABILITY

CG is movedfor better stability

Stabilizer partiallydeployed for added assurance against arollover. Deploy only with great care.

To increase stabilitywhen traversing a hill, a backhoe canbe swung uphill tomove the machine’s Center of Gravity.

Objective: To show how a steep slope may be traversed more safely.

When traversing a steep slope, the operator should first attempt to locate an alternate route. If none exists, then the machine’s stability can be increased by swinging the backhoe up slope. This will move the machine’s center of gravity away from the downhill wheels, thus increasing stability. When performing this maneuver, the operator must be alert to avoid striking ground objects with the backhoe when traveling. Also, the boom should not be raised while on the slope. This could result in shortening the distance from the center of gravity relative to the downhill wheel, resulting in a rollover.The downhill stabilizer can be lowered to help stabilize the machine should a rollover begin, but again this needs to be done with great care. The lowered stabilizer could strike an unseen object, causing the operator to loose control of the machine.Always traverse a slope SLOWLY!!

13

MACHINE STABILITY

Ground pressure increase when swung over the side.

Stability decreases as a backhoe is swung to the side.

Stability decreasesas CG moves closerto stabilizer pad.

Objective: To show how stability of a loader/backhoe changes as the bucket is swung to the side.

When a boom is swung to the side, the center of gravity of the whole machine shifts toward the side also. If the bucket is full of material or if a load is suspended from it, the center of gravity shifts even more to the side. If the combined center of gravity of the machine and load moves beyond the stabilizer, the machine will tip over.As the bucket is swung to the side, the pressure the stabilizer pad imposes on the ground increases. If that pressure exceeds the soil bearing strength for the ground, the stabilizer will sink, thus increasing a potential for a tipover.

14

AB

When leveling the machine on a slope, one stabilizer is lower than the other. This decreases the down slope stability and when working overthe down slope side, the machine’s lifting capacity is decreased.

MACHINE STABILITY

Objective: To show how stability of a loader/backhoe decreases when the machine is leveled on sloping ground.

When leveling the machine on sloping ground, the stabilizer on the downhill side of the loader/backhoe has to rotate farther down to raise that side of the machine. Thus, the horizontal distance from the machine’s center of gravity to the downhill stabilizer decreases. Shortening this distance decreases the machine’s stability which in turn decreases the amount of weight the machine can safely lift. This condition is at its worst when the bucket is fully swung to the side.

15

MACHINE STABILITY

The Center of Gravity’moves beyond thewheels as the loaderbucket is raised.

Never load on a side slope

Objective: To show how stability of a loader/backhoe on a slope is affected when the loader bucket is raised.

When a loader bucket is full and raised up, the total center of gravity of the machine rises vertically also. When the machine is on a slope and the load is raised as shown in the above figure, the center of gravity moves toward the downhill side of the machine and if it moves past the downhill tires, the machine will tip over.Loading trucks on a slope as shown above should be avoided. The truck needs to be repositioned so that the machine is relatively level.

16

MACHINE STABILITY

When working in softmaterial, a machine’s stability can be compromised by loss of footing, traction, sliding or sudden changes in the machine’s motion.

Objective: To show how stability of a loader/backhoe is affected when the machine is working in soft and/or irregular surfaces.

It is often necessary to operate a loader/backhoe in soils that have been previously excavated. This condition can affect the machine’s stability, especially when working on a slope. As the machine’s rear drive wheels attempt to gain traction, they can dig into soft soil and cause the rear of the machine to swing downhill. As this occurs, the machine’s stability decreases, which increases the likelihood of a tipover. Also, as the operator attempts to prevent the rear of the machine from swinging downhill, the maneuvering of the machine can result in a tipover. Before traversing soft, sloping ground, assess conditions to determine how soft the soil is and the amount of incline. If any doubt exists about moving the machine across such terrain, look for another route. If there is none, the loader/backhoe can be used to level the route somewhat to decrease chances of lost stability.

17

MACHINE STABILITY

Driving Forward

Increasing WeightDecreasing Weight

When Driving Forward, theforward driving torquetransfers weight fromthe front wheels to the rearwheels.

The machineattempts to rotateclockwise as itaccelerates.

Objective: To show how stability of a loader/backhoe is affected when the machine is moving forward.

When a loader/backhoe is put into motion, various dynamic forces come into play. When forward power is applied to the rear drive wheels, the machine attempts to rotate in the opposite direction, or backwards. How much the machine attempts to rotate backwards depends on how fast it is accelerated. When the machine is accelerated forward slowly, the amount of backward rotation is small, and when the machine is rapidly accelerated forward, a greater amount of backward rotation occurs. As a result of this backward rotation, a portion of the weight on the front wheels is transferred to the rear wheels. The amount of weight transfer depends on how rapidly the machine is accelerated. When the machine reaches a constant travel speed, the backward rotation diminishes and the load which was transferred to the rear wheels returns to the front wheels. During the period that the weight on the front wheels is being transferred to the rear ones, the steering capacity of the machine decreases. With less weight on the front wheels, traction is reduced and therefore the front wheels lose ability to steer the machine.

18

Center of Gravity movescloser to the rear wheelsas the machine’s angleof climb increases.

Angle of

Incline

MACHINE STABILITY

Driving Forward

Tendency forthe machineto roll backwards

Objective: To show how stability of the loader/backhoe is affected when the machine is moves forward up an incline.

When a loader/backhoe moves up an inclined slope, the horizontal distance between the machine’s center of gravity and the rear wheels decreases. This change results in the machine becoming less stable in the rearward direction. The previous slide showed how the stability of the machine is affected when it is accelerated in the forward direction. When these two effects are combined, the machine’s rearward stability is greatly reduced.To maximize the stability of a machine in this situation, keep the backhoe retracted up to the rear of the machine and accelerate as slowly as possible.

19

MACHINE STABILITY

The combination of Center of Gravitymoving toward the rear axle, andbackward rotation caused by acceleration results in the front end rising off the ground.

A bucket of material moves theCenter of Gravity toward the front,helping to keep the front wheels on the ground.

MOVING UP A HILL

Objective: To show how stability of the loader/backhoe is affected when the machine is moving forward up an incline.

When a loader/backhoe accelerates up an incline, it is very likely the front wheels will come off the ground. Retracting the backhoe and accelerating the machine slowly improves the situation but the stability of the machine can be increased further by carrying a load of material in the loader bucket. With the bucket full of material, the machine’s combined center of gravity moves forward, thus placing more weight on the front wheels.

20

MACHINE STABILITY

Driving Backwards

Decreasing WeightIncreasing Weight

When Driving Backwards,reverse driving torque willtransfer weight from

rear wheels to front wheels.

Objective: To show how stability of a loader/backhoe is affected when the machine is moving backwards.

Previous slides showed how accelerating forward transfers weight from front wheels to rear wheels. When accelerating backwards, the opposite occurs. As the machine is accelerated in reverse, it rotates toward the front. The amount of load transfer that occurs is depends on how fast the machine accelerates. The load transfer when backing up is not nearly as noticeable as when the machine is moving forward.

21

Center of Gravity movesfurther from the rear wheelsas the machine’s angleof decline increases. Thischange results in loss of tractionon the rear wheels, allowingthe machine to slide.

MACHINE STABILITY

Objective: To show how the stability of a loader/backhoe is affected when the machine is moving down an incline.

The above diagram shows how as the angle of incline increases, the horizontal distance from the rear wheel’s contact with the ground and the machine’s center of gravity increases. Depending on the amount of incline, a portion of the weight carried by the rear wheels will be transferred to the front wheels. This decreased weight on the rear wheels results in a loss of traction and control due to sliding.

22

MACHINE STABILITY

Descending a slope can resultin a loss of braking due to theload transfer to the front of themachine.

Braking can be improved by extendingthe backhoe out to increase weighton the rear wheels. Use caution whenextending and retract the backhoe to itstravel position at the base of the slope.

Objective: To show how stability of a loader/backhoe is affected when the machine is moving down an incline.

Machine control while moving downhill can be increased by extending the backhoe. This extension transfer more weight to the rear wheels, improving braking.

23

MACHINE STABILITY

Increasing Rear Wheel Traction

Increased WeightWeight Removed

by Bucket

When the loader bucket isused to raise front wheelsoff the ground, traction onthe rear wheels increases.

Objective: To show how rear wheel traction can be improved by lowering the loader bucket to the ground.

On occasion it may be desirable when backing up to increase traction on the rear wheels. By lowering the loader bucket to the ground and raising the front wheels slightly, a certain amount of weight can be transferred to the rear wheels. When doing this maneuver, the bucket should be tilted slightly forward to prevent the rear of the bucket from digging into the ground.

24

OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Operator

The Machine Property

People Around Machine

Objective: To review responsibilities of the loader/backhoe operator.

The operator of a loader/backhoe is responsible for safe operation of the machine and the safety of those working in the vicinity of it. The next few slides cover these responsibilities in greater depth.

25

OPERATOR AWARENESS FACTORS

FATIGUE &FATIGUE & HUNGERHUNGER

WEATHER: HEAT, COLDWEATHER: HEAT, COLD

EMOTIONAL LEVELEMOTIONAL LEVEL

PHYSICAL HEALTHPHYSICAL HEALTH

WORKING CONDITIONSWORKING CONDITIONS

OTHER PEOPLEOTHER PEOPLE

Objective: To discuss how different factors can affect an operator’s awareness while operating a loader/backhoe.

Several factors can affect an operator’s ability to stay focused on operating his machine. Fatigue & Hunger: Fatigue can result from working too many hours, lack of sleep, hunger or monotonous, repetitive work. When an operator shows signs of fatigue, he should be relieved to get rest or exercise to refresh his alertness. Weather: Many loader/backhoes are open to the elements. An operator needs to dress appropriately for the weather to prevent stress on his body.Emotional Level: Operators under emotional stress may not be able to stay focused. It may be necessary at times to remove such an operator from a machine until emotional equilibrium is restored.Physical Health: Operators suffering from health problems affecting their machine operating ability should not be allowed on a machine. Even workers taking cold medicine may have their alertness compromised.Working Conditions: Some worksites that have many activities occurring simultaneously can distract an operator. He must be able to block out such distractions while operating a machine.Other People: People should not attempt to talk to or in any way distract an operator who is operating a machine. Wait until he is finished with an operation before approaching or talking to him.

26

FOR SAFE OPERATION

Never Take Anything For GrantedFace the Machine When Climbing on and offKeep The Machine CleanClean Mud And Grease From ShoesAvoid Loose Clothing And JewelryWear Protective EquipmentNever Operate Machine Without Protective GuardsAlways Check Height, Width, and Weight RestrictionsKeep all Safety Devices in Place and Working In OrderPlan AheadLearn Beforehand About the Work Area

Objective: To discuss items that affect the safety of those working with and around loader/backhoes.

The above is a list of items which affect the safety of loader/backhoe operations. The merits of each item should be discussed and class members invited to add additional items to the list. If there are company policies regarding the operation of this machine, now is a good time to discuss those also.

27

SEAT BELTS

• Must Be Worn When Operating The Machine

• Inspected Each Day

Objective: To discuss the importance of wearing a seat belt.

Loader/backhoes are equipped with seat belts and which should be worn at all times. On rough terrain, a seal belt will keep the operator in his seat allowing him to maintain control of the machine. In the event of a rollover, a seat belt will keep the operator within the confines of the rollover structure.Before operating the machine each day, a operator is to inspect the seat belt for damage and proper operation.

28

CLIMBING ON AND OFF THE MACHINE

When climbing on and offthe machine, the operatorshould always face the machine.Use the the three point contactmethod when climbing: Two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand.

Objective: To discuss the proper way to mount and dismount a loader/backhoe.

When mounting or dismounting a loader/backhoe, the operator should always face the machine and use the three point contact method. This method is simply keeping two hands and a foot or one hand and two feet in contact with the machine when climbing. By following this method many slips and falls can be prevented. Also, before climbing onto the machine, the operator should check his feet for mud or grease which could cause him to loose his footing.The machine should always be mounted using the provided steps and hand holds. Never attempt to mount the machine by climbing over the rear of it. When dismounting the machine, never jump off. Serious leg, foot and ankle injuries can result from doing so.

29

JOB SITE SAFETY

OPERATOR WORKER

EVERYONE IS RESPONSIBLE FORHIMSELF AND THE OTHER PERSON

Objective: To discuss the importance of everyone working together for job site safety.

Job site safety is every one’s responsibility. When performing operations with a loader/backhoe, the operator of the machine and those assisting him on the ground need to work together as a team. Those on the ground need to notify the operator if they notice anything out of order with the machine. The operator needs to be aware of where workers on the ground are and stop operations when anyone comes within range of the machine. Everyone on the job site is responsible for himself and the other person.

30

DANGER AREA

STAY OUTOF THE SWINGAREA

WARNINGWARNING

DANGER DANGER

Objective: To discuss the dangers of workers entering the swing area of a backhoe.

When the backhoe of a loader/backhoe is in operation, no one should enter the full swing area of the backhoe. The operator’s vision of this area is not always clear and anyone entering may not be seen by the operator.

31

DANGER

DANGER DANGER

DANGER AREA

WARNINGWARNINGSTAY CLEAR

OFMOVING

STABILIZERSAND BUCKET

Objective: To discuss the dangers of workers standing close to the loader bucket and stabilizers when the machine is working.

When a backhoe is being used for excavating, the machine will often move around the ground. Workers standing close to the stabilizers or the loader bucket could be injured when the machine bounces. .

32

EYE CONTACT

DANGER DANGER

EYE CONTACT

Establish eye contactwith the operator beforeentering a danger area.

Objective: To discuss the importance of workers establishing eye contact with an operator before entering the swing area of the backhoe.

Before a worker enters the swing danger area, he must establish eye contact with the operator. The worker then must wait until the operator signals him that it is safe to enter this area. The operator should not move the backhoe until the worker has cleared the area. When it is necessary for the worker to remain in this area while the operator performs an operation, extreme care must be exercised and the worker needs to remain in the operator view.

33

ALWAYS WORK FACINGTHE MACHINE

Objective: To discuss the dangers of working around a loader/backhoe.

When working around a loader/backhoe, the worker should always work facing the machine. He should consider the machine as a continuous threat to his safety and thus constantly keep an eye on its movements.

34

EXCAVATING HAZARDS

Before excavating, determine the location of all undergroundutilities and other buried hazards.

Objective: To discuss hazards that can be encountered when excavating.

Before any excavating work begins, the location and type of all buried hazards needs to be determined. Utility companies should be contacted for the location of their buried service lines, vaults or other objects. In some areas it may be necessary to contact various agencies to discover this information. It may be needful to obtain the service of a company that specializes in locating and identifying buried objects. When the excavation approaches a buried object, hand excavating should be done to avoid accidentally striking the object with the backhoe.

35

Avoid setting stabilizerclose to the edge of thetrench.

EXCAVATING HAZARDS

Objective: To show the dangers of setting up a backhoe close to the edge of a trench.The stabilizers of a backhoe need to be set far enough from the edge of a trench to avoid a cave-in. Avoid placing the stabilizers closer than two feet from the edge. Depending on soil structure, this may not be sufficient. Remember, when the backhoe is swung to the side, the ground pressure from the stabilizer pad increases. The amount of pressure is depends on the weight being swung to the side. When setting up the backhoe near a trench, confer with the on site ‘designated competent individual’ responsible for establishing safety requirements for trenching to determine how close the machine can be to the trench edge. The rule of thumb for setup on unstable soils is: The distance the stabilizer is from the trench edge is equal to the depth of the trench.

36

EXCAVATION HAZARDS

SIDE WALLFAILURE

LOAD

PREVIOUSFILL

LOADPlacing the stabilizerpads or traveling tooclose to trench walls can result in a trench collapse. The machine may fall into the trench.

Objective: To emphasize dangers of the loader/backhoe falling into an excavation due to trench wall collapse.

Trenches that are being excavated in previously filled areas are very susceptible to wall collapse. When traveling, keep the machine parallel to the trench and avoid traveling close to the edge.

37

2 ft min.

GENERAL TRENCH PRECAUTIONS

• Keep material & equipmenta minimum of 2 ft. from edge of excavation. Greater distancemay be required, based on soilstability.

• Provide barricades or equi-valent to prevent people fromfalling into trench.

Objective: Review precautions which should be observed when a trench is under excavation.

Material excavated from a trench should be placed a minimum of two feet from the edge of the trench. This distance may need to be greater depending on soil type. The slope of the spoil pile should be flat enough to prevent material from sliding into the trench.Also note in the above picture that there are workers in the trench without adequate shielding or shoring in place.

38

GENERAL TRENCH PRECAUTIONS

Workers are not to be in a trench being excavated.

Based on soil type,shoring normally is required before a workerenters the excavation.

Objective: Discuss general trench safety precautions to be observed.

Workers should not be in a trench that is being excavated. Adequate trench shoring or shielding needs to be installed before the worker

39

LIFTING WITH THE BACKHOE

Objective: To review basics for lifting a load with a backhoe.

Backhoes are frequently used to lift and move loads.

40

LIFTING LOADS

LIFT POINT RADIUS

When lifting a load witha backhoe, refer to theoperator’s manual forspecific load ratings atdifferent radii and boompositions.

Objective: To discuss considerations for lifting loads with the backhoe.

The operator’s manual for each machine will include a section on lifting with the backhoe. This section includes information on lifting capacity for various radii of operation and where and how the loads are attached to the backhoe.The term ‘radius’ refers to the horizontal distance from the swing hinge pin to the point on the bucket where loads are attached.

41

Lift Point Radius Rated Capacity

Backhoe Straight Back, Standard Stick

5.9 ft

9.8 ft

12.5 ft

14.1 ft15.4 ft

5.9 ft

9.8 ft

12.5 ft

14.1 ft15.4 ft

8624 lbs

5170 lbs

4103 lbs

3520 lbs3058 lbs

7370 lbs

3861 lbs

2915 lbs

2442 lbs2145 lbs

Backhoe Swung to Side, Standard Stick

LOAD CAPACITY CHART

Load capacity chart forlifting has two parts:1. Straight back2. Swung to the side

When a backhoe isswung to the side, theload capacity decreasesbecause of increased instability. 30%

reduction

EXAMPLE CHART

Objective: To demonstrate how a load capacity chart is used to determine maximum lifting capacity for various radii.

The above load capacity chart is representative of a typical chart found in most operator manuals.The chart is divided into two sections: One for a lift made straight over the back of the machine, and one for lifts made with the boom swung to the side. Notice how the capacity for lifts made at the same radius decreases as the backhoe is swung to the side. Maximum capacity lifts made over the rear of the machine can, if swung to the side, tip the machine over. Machines with extendable sticks have additional load charts for the stick retracted and extended.

42

ATTACHING THE LOAD

For buckets with lifting eyes located on the back,use a shackle to attach slings. Because of the sharp edges, chain slings shouldbe used.

Objective: To show the proper way for attaching a load to backhoe bucket.

When determining where to attach the lifting sling(s) to the bucket, an operator should first refer to the operator’s manual. Most manufacturers state where the load should be attached.Some manufacturers have included a lifting eye or attachment point on the bucket. Others have designated holes on the bucket linkage as suitable lifting points.Once a load is attached to a backhoe, the bucket should not be manipulated. Doing so could foul or damage the rigging.

43

ATTACHING THE LOADTO THE BACKHOE

When attaching a chain for lifting onbuckets without lifting eyes, the chain should be attached as shown in Fig. A and brought over the back of the bucket as shown in Fig. B. Never make a lift with a chain or sling attached solelyto the teeth.

Fig. A Fig. B

Objective: To show how a load can be attached to a backhoe that doesn’t have designated lifting attachment points.

For buckets which do not have designated lifting attachment points, a chain can be attached as shown in the above figures. The backhoe bucket needs to be rotated outward so that the teeth point downward at all times during the full range of motion of the boom and the stick. The chain is attached to the bucket as shown in figure A. The chain then is placed over the back of the bucket as shown in figure B. Where the chain bends over sharp edges, blocking between the edge and the chain should be used to prevent damage to the chain. Such damage could result in chain failure.

44

ATTACHING THE LOADTO THE LOADER

Attach the sling with a shackle to the eye on the backside of the bucket. Bring the sling over the top of the bucket. Use padding to protect the rigging from sharp edges. Do not lift with the teeth on the bucket.

Objective: To discuss how loads can be lifted with the loader.

The operator’s manual for each machine includes a section on load capacity for the loader bucket. On some machines, lifting capacity is limited by the capacity of the hydraulic system. Some buckets come with lifting eyes welded to the back side. Chain slings can be attached at these points and the chain run over the front of the bucket. Blocking or some other form of protection should be used to prevent the chain from being damaged where it bends over sharp edges. Slings should not be attached to the lifting arms of the loader, or around any of the hydraulic lift cylinders.If a load is moved by traveling the machine, it should be kept as low to the ground as possible. This will help to maintain control of the load while traveling and allow the load to be quickly lowered if it gets out of control. Always travel at the slowest speed when traveling with a suspended load.

45

LIFTING OBJECTS

All slings and liftinghardware need to beload rated and approvedfor the type of work beingdone.

Objective: To discuss various types of lifting hardware for lifting various objects.

Various lifting hardware has been manufactured to use for different lifting applications. All hardware used for lifting must be load rated by the manufacturer and used according to their instructions. Prior to use, this hardware needs to be inspected by a competent individual. When not in use, the hardware should be stored to prevent damage and deterioration due to weather.

46

CONTROLLING WORKSITEACCESS

Worksites need to have proper barriers/barricades in place to prevent unauthorized personnel and vehicles from entering the work area.

Objective: To discuss requirements for controlling access to a worksite.

Before excavating work begins, access to the worksite by unauthorized persons needs to be controlled. Barriers of cone, barrels or other structures can establish the work area perimeter. Caution tape, barricade safety fencing or other well-marked material should be placed between the vertical barriers to prevent people from accidentally entering the work area.

47

SPECIAL ATTACHMENTS

Operating instructions for using special attachments should be keptwith the operator’s manual.

Objective: To briefly discuss the use of backhoe attachments.

Several types of backhoe attachments are currently available which extend the backhoe’s versatility. Before using these devices, the operator should read and thoroughly understand how to use them. When changing attachments, make sure all pins and pin locks are securely in place. Some attachments require additional hydraulic hoses to be strung from the tractor to the attachment. All hoses need to be securely attached to the backhoe to prevent damage during operations.

48

SPECIAL ATTACHMENTS

Objective: To briefly discuss the use of backhoe attachments.

Continuation of previous slide.

49

TRANSPORTING THE MACHINE

Loading and unloading the machine should be done by an experienced operator. The trans-port vehicle’s wheels need to be blocked onboth sides to prevent it from moving duringthe loading process. Tie-down chains need to be attached to the machine so as not to cause damage and prevent the machine from moving in all directions.

Objective: To briefly discuss the loading and unloading of the loader/ backhoe.

When preparing to transport a loader/backhoe, consult the operator’s manual to identify any specific things to be done. Most backhoes have a boom swing locking pin that needs to be engaged. Also, the boom transport lock needs to be engaged. When loading the machine onto a ramp truck or trailer, make sure wheels are blocked. Clean off any mud from the ramps to prevent the machine’s slipping off them. When driving the loader/backhoe up a steep ramp, remember that the front end of the machine will be light. Therefore, accelerate slowly to keep the front wheels on the deck. Once the machine is in position for traveling, lower the loader bucket as necessary and chain the machine to the transport vehicle. Avoid running the tie-down chains over hydraulic cylinders and/or other parts that could be damaged. Tie-down chains should be installed in a cross configuration, both side to side and fore to aft.When unloading the machine, make sure all tie-down chains are removed and the transport vehicle wheels blocked. Carefully descend the ramps, keeping the loader bucket high enough to clear the deck.