SELF-PROPELLED MACHINERY

In order to be classified as self-propelled machinery it must:

1. have its own power source built into the machine,

2. be designed to perform a specific task or job, and

3. be able to propel itself from one location to another using an on board operator and/or remote/radio controlling device.

SELF-PROPELLED EQUIPMENT CLASSIFICATIONS

CHEMICAL APPLICATORS. Chemical applicators are those pieces of machinery designed to apply fertilizer, lime, pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides.

HARVESTING EQUIPMENT. Harvesting equipment is the machinery used for some aspect of crop gathering. In some applications, more than one type machine may be involved in harvesting certain crops.

FARM MAINTENANCE. Farm maintenance includes any machine used to construct and/or maintain roads, clean animal storage buildings and feedlots, maintain fields, and construct or maintain structures.

FEEDING OPERATIONS. Feeding operations equipment is any machine used specifically for the purpose of feeding animals.

MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING

When mounting or dismounting agricultural machinery always remember:

- face the equipment at all times.

- use the three point contact method.

- never mount or dismount moving equipment.

- always use the designated handholds and steps.

- never use control levers as a handhold and do not step on foot controls when mounting and dismounting.

- clean your shoes and wipe your hands before mounting.

- never jump off any machinery.

- remove any trash or obstructions on the steps or operator's compartment before mounting.

MOUNTING PROCEDURES

1. Clean shoes of any mud, oil, or any other residue preventing firm contact with the steps.

2. Clean hands of any oil or other residue preventing a firm grip of hand holds.

3. Face the equipment operator's compartment and secure a firm grip with both hands.

4. Place one foot on the first step, then while using both hands and foot to pull yourself up, place the other foot on the next step.

5. With both feet firmly on the steps, move one hand to secure a second hold and then move the lowest foot on the steps to the next step. Repeat this procedure until you have both feet on the operator's platform.

MOUNTING PROCEDURES

(Continued)

6. With both feet on the operator's platform and a firm grip with both hands, position yourself in front of the operator's seat, then sit down and lock the seat belt if the machine is equipped with a Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS).

DISMOUNTING PROCEDURES

1. Unlock the seat belt, if provided, secure a firm grip with both hands and stand in front of the seat.

2. While still maintaining a firm grip with both hands, move both feet to one side of the operator's platform.

3. Turn facing the operator's compartment and while looking at the steps, place one foot on the top step, keeping a firm grip with both hands.

4. Obtain a new grip with one hand if necessary, then move the other foot down to the next step.

5. Repeat step 4 until you have both feet firmly on the ground.

6. Release both hand holds, turn facing away from the machine and walk away.

CONTROLS

Controls are devices (typically levers and switches) designed to give the operator a means of communication with the machinery and the ability to regulate and command the machinery to perform all desired responses. The controls are located within reach from the operator's seat. Agricultural machinery has three basic type of controls. They are:

1. Foot controls -- these controls are operated by the operator's feet and are typically located toward the front or rear of the operator's platform.

2. Hand controls -- these controls are operated by the operator's hands and can be located to the right, left, in front of or above the operator's seat.

3. Combination controls -- these controls can be operated by the operator's feet and/or hands.

BASIC CONTROLS

The nine basic controls common to agricultural machinery are:

1. Brake control

2. Clutch control

3. Engine speed control (throttle)

4. Ground speed and directional controls

5. Differential lock

6. Steering control

7. Electrical controls

BASIC CONTROLS

(Continued)

8. Engine stop controls

9. Lift controls

NOTE: To find out the specific types and the operation of controls on your equipment, read and understand the operator's manual.

INSTRUMENTS

Instruments are the devices that allow the tractor to communicate with the operator and notify him/her of safe and/or unsafe conditions. Instruments may be in the form of a warning light, analog gauge, or digital display. The most common instruments used include:

1. Engine speed indicator (tachometer) -- this indicator identifies the engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM).

2. Oil pressure indicator -- the oil pressure indicator will either tell the operator the actual oil pressure or warn of low oil pressure during engine operation.

3. Engine temperature indicator-- the engine temperature indicator will either indicate actual operating temperature or notify the operator of an unsafe operating condition.

INSTRUMENTS

(Continued)

4. Electrical system condition -- this is commonly referred to as the battery condition indicator. However, its actual purpose is to indicate if the electrical charging system is supplying adequate voltage to maintain all electrical components while in operation.

5. Miscellaneous instruments -- some manufacturers include a variety of other instruments. Some additional indicators may include: fuel gauge, coolant level, air filter condition, transmission temperature, hydraulic oil level, and many more.

OPERATOR SYMBOLS

Operator symbols are visually recognized figures used to transmit information free of words of explanation (ASAE, 1995). The operator symbols are used to identify operator controls, instruments, and servicing locations and/or devices.

Hand signals are used when the operator is being assisted by another person. The hand signals become the method of communication between the operator and assistant when noise or distance prevents the use of normal voice communications.

Safety signs are a visual alerting device in the form of a decal, label, placard, or other marking such as an embossing, stamping, etching, or other process that advises the observer of the nature and degree of the potential hazard(s) that can cause injury or death. Safety signs can also provide safety precautions or evasive actions to take, or provide other directions to eliminate or reduce the hazard (ASAE).

THREE BASIC TYPES OF SAFETY SIGNS:

DANGER -- indicates a threatening hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. The signal word "DANGER" is to be limited to the most extreme situations, typically for machine components that, for connection purposes, cannot be guarded (ASAE).

WARNING -- indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury, and includes hazards that are exposed when guards are removed. The signal word "WARNING" may also be used to alert against unsafe practices (ASAE).

CAUTION -- indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. The signal word "CAUTION" may also be used to alert against unsafe conditions (ASAE).

BATTERY SAFETY

Battery condition -- when checking the battery, safety has priority over everything you do. When checking the battery the operator should:

-wear the proper safety equipment. (gloves, apron, face shield, etc.)

-keep fire or flame away from the battery.

-inspect for loose and/or corroded connections.

-inspect electrolyte level (fluid level; not required on maintenance free batteries)

-inspect battery hold down. Battery should be secure and unable to move around.

-inspect condition of cables (cracked, chafed, torn, or melted insulation).

-look for cleanliness of the battery top. Be sure there is no build-up of trash such as leaves.

FUEL, COOLANT AND OIL SAFETY

Fuel, coolant, and oil levels -- maintaining adequate fluid levels is important to keeping the agricultural tractor running.

Fuel level -- check the fuel level by removing the fuel cap and visually checking the level in the tank. The fuel level may also be read from a fuel gauge if the tractor is so equipped.

Coolant -- check the coolant level by removing the radiator cap and visually checking for the proper level. WARNING - NEVER REMOVE THE RADIATOR CAP IF THE ENGINE IS HOT. Allow the engine to cool until the radiator is cool to the touch.

Oil (engine) -- check the oil level by removing the dipstick and reading the level indicated on the dipstick.

Oil (hydraulic) -- Check the transmission and hydraulic oil levels according to the operator's manual.

FUEL, COOLANT AND OIL SAFETY

(Continued)

Fluid leaks -- check for any wet or damp areas on the machinery as well as any puddles on the floor or ground under the agricultural tractor.

WARNING: When a fluid leak is identified, have the problem corrected before operating the equipment.

TIRE SAFETY

Tire condition and pressures -- check tire condition by looking for cuts, bruises, or breaks in the sidewalls; excessive weathering; uneven tread wear; damp spots on tires filled with fluid; and air pressure. See the operator's manual for correct air pressure.

To service tractor tires with low air pressure, use the following procedure:

-attach an unpressurized air hose to the tractor tire valve stem.

-stand to the side, not in front of the tire, and slowly add air pressure using a regulator to avoid excess pressure.

-with the desired air pressure registering on the gauge, shut off the flow of air to the tire and remove the air hose form the valve stem. Note: some air may escape while removing the air hose depending on the type of connector used.

OTHER SAFETY

Defective and/or loose equipment -- check for any loose or missing bolts, pins, wiring, or shields. Tighten all loose accessories and guards and replace anything found defective.

Safety devices -- this can include fire extinguishers, first aid-kit, and safety signs or warning labels. Also check for any safety switches that have been disconnected or bypassed. If a safety switch is not working, have it corrected before operating the tractor.

Air filter -- check the air filter every day.

SELF PROPELLED EQUIPMENT SAFETY

Operator's compartment -- consists of the platform, seat, controls, instruments, and roll over protective structure (ROPS).

-Platform -- should be clear of any trash, mud, or other clutter and have an antislip surface.

Seat -- should be adjustable and positioned to where the operator can reach all controls comfortably. The seat should also be equipped with a seat belt if a ROPS is attached to the tractor.

Controls -- should all be identifiable and within comfortable reach of the operator and functional.

Instruments -- should all be identifiable, functional, and readable from the operator's seat.

ROPS -- should be attached according to the operator's manual with no unauthorized modifications.

SELF PROPELLED EQUIPMENT SAFETY (Continued)

Operator's compartment (continued)

Cab -- check for dirty, cracked or broken windows. Also check for functional wipers, proper door operation, and clutter that may block your view from any angle. Check mirrors for adjustment and cleanliness.

Equipment setup -- Check for proper ballasting (weights), make sure all connections are properly attached, and that you have the proper size tractor for the job.

Lubrication -- Identify lubrication points and lubricate according to the operator’s manual

PRESTART SAFETY

The prestart check includes doing the following:

1. Make sure everyone is clear: no one else should be on or next to the agricultural machinery.

2. If parked inside a building, open doors to allow for adequate ventilation during starting.

3. Properly mount the tractor and adjust the operator's seat.

4. Fasten seat belt if tractor is equipped with a ROPS.

5. Check all controls:

-place hydraulic controls in a neutral or static position.

-place three-point lift control in a down or locked position.

-put PTO in an off or disengaged position.

PRESTART SAFETY

(Continued)

5. Check all controls: (continued)

-place brakes in a set or locked position.

-set ground speed and directional controls in neutral or park position.

6. Be sure clutch pedal is in disengaged position.

7. Turn ignition switch to "On" position and check gauges and warning lights for operation.

FOR SAFE OPERATION OF SELF-PROPELLED EQUIPMENT:

- Watch where you are going, especially at row ends, on roads, and around trees and low hanging obstacles.

- Use a spotter to guide you when backing with your vision blocked.

- Avoid upsets by driving the machinery with care and at speeds compatible with safety, especially when operating over rough ground, when crossing ditches or slopes, and when turning corners.

- Avoid operating the equipment near ditches, embankments, and holes.

- Stay off slopes too steep for safe operation.

- Travel up or down a slope rather than across it according to the operator's manual.

- Lock equipment brake pedals together when transporting on roads to provide two wheel braking.

FOR SAFE OPERATION OF SELF-PROPELLED EQUIPMENT:

(Continued)

- Keep brakes evenly adjusted to provide even braking when brakes are locked together.

- As a rule of thumb, keep the equipment in the same gear when going downhill as used when going uphill. Do not coast or free wheel down hills.

- Be sure that any towed vehicle whose total weight exceeds that of the towing equipment is equipped with brakes for safe operation.

- Always check overhead clearance, especially when transporting the equipment or towing high objects.

- Adjust lights to prevent blinding an oncoming driver when operating at night.

- Make sure seat belt is fastened if ROPS is installed.

FOR SAFE OPERATION OF SELF-PROPELLED EQUIPMENT:

(Continued)

- Do not permit others to ride on the equipment unless designated locations have been established by the manufacturer of the equipment.

- Operate the equipment smoothly -- no jerky turns, starts or stops.

- Hitch only to manufacturer recommended hitch points.

- When the equipment is stopped, be sure the brakes are securely set.

- Never use attachments unless they are properly matched to your equipment.

- Operate controls only from the operator's seat.

- Never leave the equipment unattended with the engine running.

FOR SAFE OPERATION OF SELF-PROPELLED EQUIPMENT:

(Continued)

- Pay attention to what you are doing, don't let a daydream turn into a permanent dream.

- Never operate nor allow anyone else to operate machinery while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

- Do not let your equipment bounce. You may lose steering control.

- Do not brake suddenly. Apply brakes smoothly and gradually.

ROLL-OVER SAFETY

Prevent a roll-over situation during hillside travel by:

- operating the equipment with care and at speeds compatible with safety, especially when operating over rough ground, when crossing ditches or slopes, and when turning corners.

- avoiding operation of the equipment near ditches, embankments, and holes.

- staying off slopes too steep for safe operation.

- traveling straight up or down a steep slope rather than across it

- staying away from ditches and embankments a distance equal to or greater than the depth of the ditch or embankment.

Transport equipment safely by observing

the following recommended practices:

- never exceed the rated load capacities of your equipment.

- be sure the equipment is properly ballasted.

- select a safe ground speed.

- always let the engine assist with braking when going down hills.

- lock the brakes together.

- slow down when making turns and make wide gentle turns.

- place all equipment into their narrowest transport configuration.

- avoid transporting equipment along hillsides and near ditches and holes.

Transport equipment safely by observing

the following recommended practices:

(continued)

- place all components in their transport position and lock them in place.

- allow sufficient clearance for oversize loads.

- watch overhead clearance when moving high equipment.

HIGHWAY TRAVEL WITH AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY

Refer to the operator's manual for transporting instructions.

Lock the brake pedals together.

Place all components in their transport position and lock them in place.

Disengage any PTOs and the differential lock.

Make sure the machinery is equipped with a SMV(slow moving vehicle) emblem.

Make sure any required clearance flags or hazard lights are in place and in working order.

Use a proper safety hitch pin with safety clip retainer for any attached equipment.

HIGHWAY TRAVEL WITH AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY

(Continued)

Use a safety chain when linking equipment to the self-propelled machine.

Clean off all reflectors and road lights, front and rear, and be certain they are in working order.

Familiarize yourself with -- and obey-- all local, state, and federal laws appropriate to your class of equipment.

RULES OF THE ROAD

WARNING: Do not allow any riders on the equipment.

Know the route you are going to travel.

Use flashing lights when traveling on roads, day or night, unless prohibited by law.

Use caution when towing at transport speeds. If the towed equipment is not equipped with brakes:

- DO NOT TOW equipment weighing more than twice the towing machinery weight.

- Do not exceed 10 MPH (16 KPH) if the towed equipment weighs more than the towing machinery.

- Do not exceed 20 MPH (32 KPH) while towing equipment that weighs less than the towing machinery.

RULES OF THE ROAD

(Continued)

Consult the operator's manual for specific towing requirements on your specific self-propelled machine.

Use extreme caution when transporting on snow covered or slippery pavement.

Wait for traffic to clear before entering a public road.

Beware of blind intersections. Slow down until you have a clear view.

Make wide, gentle turns.

Signal your intent to slow, stop, or turn.

Shift to a lower gear before going up or down hills.

RULES OF THE ROAD

(Continued)

Keep equipment in gear. Never coast with clutch disengaged or transmission in neutral.

Stay out of the path of oncoming traffic.

Drive in the right hand lane as close to the edge as possible.

If traffic builds up behind you, pull off the road and let it go by. When pulling off the road, pull completely off the road staying away from ditches and embankments.

Drive defensively. Anticipate what other drivers might do.

When towing equipment, start braking sooner than normal and slow down gradually.

Watch out for overhead obstructions.