Excavator Operation Tips
Excavators are powerful pieces of heavy equipment that have found usage in many different industries. Of course, the more powerful the machine, the more careful you need to be while operating it. Here is a list of important excavator operation safety tips from the experts at Pete’s Equipment Sales & Rentals, Inc.
Get the Proper Training
Anyone who wants to operate an excavator should go through the proper training first. This training should involve hands-on learning with instructors present so that they can point out and correct any mistakes made before they become a habit. Operators should also get a feel for a specific model’s unique features like its weight limitations.
Maintain and Inspect the Excavator
Proper maintenance is another important aspect of excavator safety. A well-maintained excavator is less likely to experience mechanical failures, which reduces your chances of having an accident. We also recommend inspecting your excavator at the start of each work day to make sure there are no lingering issues that might affect safety.
Drive Safely
When it comes to driving your excavator, your goal should always be stability. Keeping your bucket low will not only improve stability but also give you better visibility. You should also plan out your route to favor flat ground free of obstacles. The fastest route might not always be the safest. If you have no choice but to drive your excavator on a slope, do so vertically instead of diagonally.
End of the Day
When the work day ends, it’s important that you park your excavator on a level surface with the bucket lowered. Turn off the auto-idle switch and let the engine run at half throttle for a few minutes so that the turbocharger has time to cool down. Set the RPM to low idle, shut off the engine, and lock up the cab for the night.
For more information about excavators or to shop our inventory of excavator models, visit Pete’s Equipment Sales & Rentals, Inc. in Morrisville, Vermont. We are proud to serve communities like Montpelier and Burlington, Vermont, and we hope to see you soon. We also offer trade-ins, rentals, parts ordering, and servicing, so visit us for all your excavator-related needs!