The backhoe loader is one of the most useful tools you’ll have at a construction site. However, as with any type of large machinery, it can be very dangerous if you do not treat it with the respect it deserves. It is important to carefully follow all safety precautions to avoid a potential disaster at your job site.
With this in mind, here are some safety tips from our equipment rental company in Monroe, LA about using a backhoe:
- Always conduct an inspection before use: Walk around the backhoe before you use it, and check for any damage to the bucket or attached tool. Take a look at all hydraulic hoses, check for leaks under the machine, check the tires for any signs of damage and to ensure they have the proper level of air pressure, and make daily fluid checks, including checks of the glycol, hydraulic oil and engine oil.
- Check your surroundings: Make sure you are aware of any potential hazards in your immediate surroundings, and that the conditions are ideal for operation. Once you get into the cab, adjust the steering wheel to be in the most comfortable, easy-to-use position. Before taking the machine on the road, make sure you’ve locked the boom and swing lock. Before digging, make sure you know which control pattern your machine is using.
- Know how to lift heavy objects: Your machine must be completely stable when you attempt to lift heavy objects. Keep it level with the front and rear tires clear of the ground by about six inches. The stabilizers should be spread as far apart from each other as possible without allowing the tires to touch the ground. Make sure you use proper lifting equipment and make good use of the integrated lifting eye on the backhoe’s power link. Lifting while at low idle will give you the maximum control while also allowing you to communicate with other workers on the ground. Finally, know the weight range your machine is capable of lifting.
- Always use the stabilizers correctly: Stabilizers should always be down enough to handle the machine’s weight. Keep the front bucket down, lifting up the front of the machine to give the maximum stability.
- Stay safe on hills: You’re always going to want to keep the machine as level as possible, which can be a bit more difficult while working on hilly job sites. If you can’t get the machine completely level, try to swing uphill with a loaded bucket and downhill with an empty bucket to prevent destabilization. If you’re trenching while facing uphill and preparing to move, tuck the hoe and turn your seat to the forward-facing, ready-to-drive position before you lift the stabilizers to get more control over the transmission and brakes.
These are just a few good recommendations that will help you stay safe on your job site while using the backhoe. For more information, we encourage you to contact our equipment rental company in Monroe, LA today.