Knowledge is a major ingredient for safety.
Knowing yourself, your machine, and the jobsite all contribute to getting the
job done efficiently and safely. It is important that you and everyone who
operates a Bobcat skid-steer loader understands proper machine operation and
recognizes situations that could result in an accident injuring yourself or
someone working with you. During the next few minutes, you will learn some basic
safety rules and instructions associated with the operation of Bobcat skid-steer loaders,
including compact track loaders and all-wheel steer loaders.
Skid-steer loaders are self propelled machines that are unique in their
compact, rugged, and highly maneuverable design. As with all types of machines,
they must be operated safely. Although this presentation contains many valuable
safety guidelines, it should not be treated as the only source for skid-steer
loader safety information. The operation and maintenance manual is your
primary guide for safe loader operation. Another excellent source is the
bilingual skid-steer loader safety manual in English and Spanish, produced
by the Association of Equipment manufacturers. And some attachments are
also provided with a separate operator's manual. It is essential that you become
familiar with the operation of your particular skid-steer loader. You will
see this Safety Alert symbol throughout the presentation, as well as in various
manuals, the Bobcat operator's handbook, and on machine safety signs.
It identifies important safety messages. When you see it, be alert to the
possibility of serious injury or death. Always follow the instructions in the
safety message. This symbol points out actions you should avoid to reduce the
potential for injury. Once you have familiarized yourself with
the machine, make certain you are dressed for the job.
Do not wear loose clothing or anything else that may catch on controls or in
moving parts. When getting on the loader, face the machine. Use the grab handles
and steps, maintaining a three-point contact at all times. Now adjust the seat.
Always fasten the seat belt for restraint. Adjust it so that it is snug
across your hips. For models equipped with high-range travel speed, fasten the
shoulder belt for additional restraint when operating at high range speed.
Now, lower the seat bar. Bobcat loaders have an interlock control system.
The system should be inspected and maintained for proper function as required by the manufacturer.
Take time to read the Bobcat operator's handbook any safety
signs and other instructional decals in the cab, on other areas of the loader, or
the attachment. The safety signs are important and will help you avoid
situations that could result in serious injury or death. Bobcat loaders are
equipped with many safety features. The cab is the most obvious. The structure
provides falling object protection, or FOPs, and rollover protection, or ROPs.
The FOPs and ROPs should never be removed or modified. All cabs have a rear
opening for a secondary exit. Your particular job application could require
additional accessories or equipment, such as a special applications kit to
restrict materials from entering the cab, single point lifts, or a fire extinguisher.
The controls used to operate machine functions may vary
depending on the model and control system on the machine.
Loaders equipped with standard controls provide steering levers to control drive
and steering functions, and foot pedals to operate lift and tilt functions.
Standard controls with power assist or SCPA, function much like a
standard control machine with power assist handles for drive and steering functions.
Loaders equipped with the advanced control system, or ACS, provide
steering levers to control drive and steering functions. The operator can
choose between handles or foot pedals to control lift and tilt functions.
Loaders equipped with selectable joystick controls, or SJC,
provide joysticks to control drive, steering, lift, and tilt functions.
Two control patterns are available: ISO and H. The Bobcat all-wheel steer, or AWS loaders,
also provide joysticks to control drive, steering, lift, and tilt functions.
The operator can select between two different steering modes:
all-wheel steer and the skid-steer mode. Regardless of the steering mode,
selected, the left joystick controls drive and steering functions while the
right joystick controls lift and tilt functions. When in AWS mode, you get
precise steering from the coordinated action of all four wheels.
If high range speed is selected, only the front wheels provide steering.
It is important that you understand the difference in the direction of travel
when operating in Reverse in all-wheel steer versus skid-steer mode.
For example, in all-wheel steer mode, move the joystick in a C pattern when changing
from a forward right turn to a backward right turn. However, to change from a
forward right turn to a backward right turn in skid-steer mode, move the
joystick in an S pattern instead of using a C pattern.
As you can see it is extremely important to be familiar with the particular
loader you are operating. Although the models may be different,
one thing remains the same: moving the steering controls smoothly is the best
way to operate any skid-steer loader. The loader will react the moment you move
the steering controls forward or backward. The further the controls are
moved from the neutral position, the faster the loader will go.
Other controls provide for activation of the auxilary hydraulic system to operate grapples,
augers, and other attachments. Now let's talk about starting the machine.
Ensure the brake is on and the area is clear of all bystanders. Start the engine.
Never attempt to start the engine or operate the controls from outside the
operator's position. This is dangerous and could cause serious injury or death.
For example, the lift arms, attachment, or the loader itself could move. Always sit in
the operator's seat to operate the machine. Check all controls, gauges, and
warning lights. Maintenance of your loader might be necessary before you
begin operating. Once the engine is started and the engine speed is set, get
familiar with the operation of the loader and its controls.
Operate at a reduced speed until you fully understand and can control the
operation of the loader. Each Bobcat skid-steer loader has a rated operating
capacity. These load limits must not be exceeded. Overloading could cause tipping
and result in serious injury and damage to the machine or attachment.
Bobcat provides different sized loader buckets for use with different materials.
Be sure to use the correct attachment for your job and always make sure your attachment
is properly secured using the Bob-Tach mounting system provided.
Safe handling of loads requires care and good judgment. Here are a few basic guidelines.
Never ram a bucket into a material pile. The loader has more power with only minimum
movement of the steering controls. Always carry the load as low as possible for
the best stability and visibility. Operate the controls smoothly, keeping
your hands on the controls and your feet on the foot pedals or foot rests at all times.
Never stand, lean, or reach out of the front of the loader when the engine is
running. A steering control or hydraulic control could be activated. Don't make
any sudden stops, starts, or turns. Again, operate the controls smoothly.
Avoid rough terrain if possible. Be careful on slopes and avoid traveling
across steep slopes. Drive straight up or down slopes, and keep the heavy end of
the loader uphill. With no load, the rear is heavier. Refer to the operation and
maintenance manual for specific instructions for your loader.
Always check the surface conditions for adequate traction to avoid sliding down
a slippery slope, causing a rollover. Slowdown as you approach the dump site.
Raise the load slowly, keeping your load level to prevent spilling over the back
of the bucket. Never lift, swing, or move a load over anyone and never allow anyone
to reach under or stand under raised lift arms. Always look in the direction
of travel. Look in all directions before moving and look to the rear before
backing up. Keep bystanders away from the machine. Failure to maintain a clear view
in the direction of travel could result in serious injury or death.
If your machine is equipped with a backup alarm, it must sound when
operating in reverse. A backup alarm is not a substitute for looking to the rear
when operating the loader in Reverse or for keeping bystanders away from the
work area. The operator is responsible for safe operation.
Never carry riders on the loader or on attachments. A Bobcat skid-steer loader
is strictly a one-person machine. Be aware of potential jobsite hazards such
as overhead or underground utilities. Call before you dig.
If you must work in an enclosed area, make sure you have adequate ventilation.
Exhaust fumes can kill or cause serious illness. When parking or leaving the
loader, never leave the loader seat with lift arms raised or with the engine
running. Remember: always lower the lift arms and attachment flat on the ground.
Stop the engine. Remove the ignition key or lock the keyless panel to secure the machine.
Engage the parking brake. Move the controls until they're locked or in
the neutral position. Follow the procedure outlined in the operation and
maintenance manual and on the loaders machine safety sign or decal. If the lift
arms must be left in a raised position for service work, they must be supported
by an approved lift arm support device to prevent accidental lowering.
When transporting a loader follow the loading, unloading, and tie-down procedures found
in the operation and maintenance manual.
Becoming a proficient Bobcat skid-steer loader operator requires knowledge, skill,
and good judgment. Be that operator. Viewing this presentation is just one of
the ways to work toward those goals. Again, the operation and maintenance
manual is still the best source for more information. It is impossible to cover
every situation you can encounter on the job, but by following good safety
practices and using good judgment, you will protect yourself and those around you.
Doing your job well and doing it safely is the mark of a professional.
For additional information about training resources for all Bobcat equipment, see www.bobcat.com or contact your Bobcat dealer.