AVOID HIGH-VOLTAGE CABLES Serious injury or death can result from contact or proximity to high-voltage electric lines. The bucket does not have to make physical contact with power lines for current to be transmitted. Use a spotter and hand signals to stay away from power lines not clearly visible to operator. Figure 18 Use these minimum distances as a guideline only. Depending upon voltage in line and atmospheric conditions, strong current shocks can occur with boom or bucket as far away as 4 - 6 m (13 - 20 ft) from power line. Very high voltage and rainy weather could further decrease that safety margin. NOTE:
Before starting any type of operation near power lines (either above ground or buried cable-type) you should always contact power utility directly and work out a safety plan with them. BEFORE STARTING TO DIG, CONTACT AUTHORITIES Below ground hazards also include natural gas lines, water mains, tunnels and buried foundations. Know what’s underneath work site before starting to dig. BE AWARE OF HEIGHT OBSTACLES Any type of object in vicinity of boom could represent a potential hazard, or cause operator to react suddenly and cause an accident. Use a spotter or signal person working near bridges, phone lines, work site scaffolds, or other obstructions.
USE CARE ON LOOSE SUPPORT Working heavy loads over loose, soft ground or uneven, broken terrain can cause dangerous side load conditions and possible tipover and injury. Travel without a load or balanced load may also be hazardous. If temperatures are changing, be cautious of dark and wet patches when working or traveling over frozen ground. Stay away from ditches, overhangs and all other weak support surfaces. Halt work and install support mats or blocking if work is required in an area of poor support. S0103010K Page 20 Wheel Loader Safety VOLTAGE MINIMUM SAFE DISTANCE 6.6 kV 3 m (9’ 10'') 33.0 kV 4 m (13’ 1'') 66.0 kV 5 m (16’ 5'') 154.0 kV 8 m (26’ 3'') 275.0 kV 10 m (32’ 10'')