Skid Steer Loader Safety

Skid Steer Loader Safety

In construction and farming, skid steer loaders are one of the most helpful tools for small-space excavating and farming tasks.  However, because of their small size and bucket-heavy design, skid steer loaders can be one of the most dangerous tools with improper use.  Let’s look at some free safety tips for skid steer loader use that will help your construction company, farm, or ranch complete projects and tasks quickly, easily, and safely.

Proper Use

Skid steer loaders have multiple uses.  The wide array of attachments available for a skid steer loader makes it one of the most versatile tools in construction and farming.  However, the large number of attachments available increases the necessity of task-related proper-use instructions.  Let’s cover the general rules for safe use as well as some of the task-specific rules:

• Never remove the rollover bars and safety screens — crushing injuries and fatalities can occur if the protective gear is removed.
• Always wear your seatbelt and seat bar — skid steers are easily subject to rollovers.
• Always carry your load-weight low — this will decrease rollover potential and increase the machine’s stability while driving.
• Never exceed the skid steer loader’s weight limit — a heavily-weighted machine is more difficult to operate and is much less responsive.
• When possible, do not drive over rough surfaces.
• Point your load uphill when going up or down hills — rollover potential is decreased with proper use.
• Advise beginners to take their hands and feet off of controls if they encounter problems — the machine operation can be confusing for beginners.
• Always be aware of your machine’s balance.  Empty buckets will influence a back heavy machine, and full buckets make the front heavy.  Adjust your operation accordingly.
• Do not drive across slopes.  Either drive directly up or down a slope or find another point of access for a steep slope.
• Drive around obstacles, never over.
• Skid steer loaders are one-person occupancy machines.  Never give anyone a ride in or on a skid loader.
• Never use the skid steer loader as an elevator or platform — no person should ever be allowed to ride in or stand on the bucket because the hydraulics could always fail.
• Never try to operate the machine from outside of the cab.
• When driving near an embankment, stay the same distance away from the embankment as it is deep.  Working on an unstable embankment too close to the cliff wall could cause a landslide, with you on it.
• Always ensure your work area is free of bystanders before operation.
• Make sure your attachments are locked before moving and that the arms are locked if you must complete maintenance on upright arms.

Skid steer loaders are unstable machines, but if used correctly, a skid steer loader can offer your business excellence in small-space excavating or farm tasks without causing harm to your employees.  Fully train your employees in skid steer loader safety to ensure the company maintains safety goals.