OM3050 7/09 Operating Instructions - Section 30 Page 30-1 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS PREPARING FOR OPERATION WALK AROUND INSPECTION The safest trucks are those which have been properly prepared for operation. At the beginning of each shift, a careful check of the truck should be made before attempting to start the engine. At the beginning of each shift, a careful walk around inspection should be performed before attempting to start the engine. A walk around inspection is a systematic ground level inspection of the truck and its components to ensure that the truck is safe to operate before entering the operator's cab. Safety is thinking ahead. Prevention is the best safety program.
Prevent a potential accident by knowing the employer's safety requirements, all necessary job site regulations, and use and care of the safety equipment on the truck. Only qualified operators or technicians should attempt to operate or maintain a Komatsu truck. Start at the left front corner of the truck (see the illustration on the next page) and move in a counterclockwise direction. Move front-to-rear, across the rear, and continue forward up the opposite side of the truck to the original starting point. Safe practices start before the operator gets to the equipment.
If these steps are performed in sequence and are repeated from the same point and in the same direction before every shift, many potential problems may be avoided or scheduled for maintenance. Unscheduled downtime and loss of production can be reduced as a result. Wear the proper clothing. Loose fitting clothing, unbuttoned sleeves and jackets, jewelry, etc., can catch on a protrusion and cause a potential hazard. Always use the personal safety equipment provided for the operator such as hard hats, safety shoes, safety glasses or goggles. There are some conditions when protective hearing devices should also be worn for operator safety.
Local work practices may prevent an operator from performing all tasks suggested here. To the extent permitted, the operator should follow this routine. When walking to and from the truck, maintain a safe distance from all machines, even if the operator is visible. High voltage may be present on this truck! DO NOT open any electrical cabinet doors on this truck while the engine is running. Never climb on any power cables or use power cables for handholds or footholds unless the engine has been shut down and the system has been verified to be at “rest”.