Minimum levels of insurance coverage, work permits or certification, physical barriers around the work site or restricted hours of operation may be mandated by governing authorities. There may also be regulations, guidelines, standards or restrictions on equipment that may have to be followed for local requirements. There may also be regulations related to performing certain kinds of work. If there is any question about whether your machine and work site complies with the applicable standards and regulations contact your local authorities and agencies. Avoid entering soft ground. It will be difficult for the machine to escape.
Figure 16 Avoid operating your machine to close to the edge of cliffs, overhangs, and deep ditches. The ground may be weak in such areas. If the ground should collapse, the machine could fall or tip over and this could result in serious injury or death. Remember that the soil after heavy rain, blasting or after earthquakes, is weakened in these areas. Earth laid on the ground and the soil near ditches is loose. It can collapse under the weight of vibration of your machine and cause your machine to tip over. Install the head guard (FOPS) if working in areas where there is danger of falling rocks.
CHECKS BEFORE STARTING ENGINE Every day before starting the engine for the first time, carry out the following checks. If these checks are not carried out properly, there is danger of serious injury. Completely remove all wood chips, leaves, grass, paper and other flammable materials accumulated in the engine compartment and around the battery. They could cause a fire. Remove any dirt from the window glass, mirrors, handrails, and steps. Do not leave tools or spare parts laying around in the operator's compartment. The vibration of the machine when traveling or during operations may cause them to fall and damage or break the control levers or switches.
They may also get caught in the gap of the control levers and cause the work equipment to malfunction or move dangerously. This may lead to unexpected accidents. Check the coolant level, fuel level, and hydraulic tank oil level, and check for clogged air cleaner and damage to the electrical wiring. Adjust the operator's seat to a position where it is easy to operate the machine, and check the seat belt and mounts for damage and wear. Check the operation of the gauges and the angle of the mirrors, and check that the safety lever is in "LOCKED" position. If any abnormalities are found in the above checks, carry out repairs immediately. 1-22 Safety 022-00058E Operation and Maintenance Manual