According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the agricultural sector is still the most dangerous in America. The fall harvest season can be one of the busiest and most risky times of the year for farmers. The third week of September is National Farm and Safety Week to help raise awareness for farm safety during this time of year.
Safety is critical on the farm. Farm injuries can be serious and even fatal. Equipment damage and accidents can financially impact operations due to reduced production, performance, and revenue. Taking safety seriously can help prevent injuries and lost revenue. In this article, we’re sharing tips from the National Ag Safety Database for skid steer loader safety.
Common Skid Steer Loader Dangers
Skid steer loader safety precautions are in place to prevent serious injuries and death. The most common causes of injuries related to skid steer loaders are crushed by moving parts and rollover accidents. Skid steer loaders can overturn when operated improperly. This is especially true when handling heavy loads or operating on uneven ground.
You may see these and other warnings on a skid steer loader:
- Burn hazard
- Keep hands away from moving machine parts
- Equipment can drop and crush you
- Avoid getting caught in rotating parts
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safely operating the equipment. Read and follow the instructions from the operator’s manual. Pay attention to warning labels and focus on working safely. Don’t operate machinery if you’re tired or after taking drugs or alcohol. If you’re on medication, speak with your doctor or pharmacist to determine whether you’re able to safely operate machinery.
Skid Steer Loader Safety Tips
Workers can be killed and crushed by moving parts due to not entering the equipment safely. Only enter the skid steer loader when the engine is off, lift arms are down, and attachments are on the ground. Face the seat and keep both hands on the grab bars. Do not use the control levers as grab bars.
Never leave the operator’s station when the engine is running or the lift arms are raised. Always wear a seat belt when operating the equipment. Check safety equipment such as the safety belt and bar to make sure it is intact and free of damage. Steps should be free of ice, mud, and debris; replace the non-slip surface when it becomes worn. Ensure attachments are mounted and fastened correctly.
Another common cause of skid steer loader injuries is trying to climb out of the cab without observing safe shutdown procedures. Always follow these precautions when shutting down the equipment. Park on a level surface and lower lift arms and attachments to the ground. Place the controls in neutral and set the parking brake. Turn off the engine. Cycle the controls to relieve hydraulic pressure. Make sure the controls are locked (if applicable), remove the ignition key, unbuckle the safety belt, and raise the safety bar. Use the steps on the loader to exit and use the grab handles for support. Block the wheels if there’s a chance the loader will roll.
Puddles of fluid under the load are a sign that something is leaking, which could cause the equipment to break down. It’s also a fire hazard. Report these signs to your supervisor right away.
Prevent Rollover Injuries
Don’t overload the attachment. You can find the maximum load limit on the capacity label, data plate, or operator’s manual. Overloading the attachment can cause the loader to become unstable and roll over. Evenly distribute the load on the attachment and secure unstable loads to prevent them from shifting or falling. Lift loads slowly and evenly.
Carry loads close to the ground, but high enough to get over any obstacles. Carry the load as low as you can when turning, carrying a heavy load, traveling on a slope, or operating on rough surfaces. Keep the attachment level when moving lift arms or driving up and down hills.
Operate at a speed appropriate for the conditions. Keep the heavy end of the loader pointed uphill. Avoid holes, weak floors, large bumps, and soft spots. Stay away from steep edges on loading docks, retaining walls, ditches, ramps, and near trenches.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
