ENGINE START UP AND OPERATING SAFETY lines, keep proper distance to assure that the attachment does not come close to the lines. DANGER! You must inform yourself about safe distances. Before start up, check if all indicator lights and instruments are functioning properly, place all controls in neutral position and tilt the safety lever up. Preferably have the electrical lines de-energized (and lockout / tagged out according to the regulations applicable on the job-site) each time it is possible, and in any case if the closeness of the working area make it necessary. Before starting the engine, alert any nearby personnel that the excavator is being started by sounding the horn.
Start the machine only when seated in the operators seat, and with the seat belt fastened (if installed). In case you do touch a high voltage line by accident, proceed as follows: If you have no other instructions, start the engine as outlined in the Operation and Maintenance Manual. do not leave the machine, move the machine, if possible, from the danger zone until you obtain sufficient distance, warn any personnel in the vicinity not to come close to the excavator and not to touch it, Tilt the safety lever down and check all indicators, gauges, warning devices and controls for their proper indication. instruct or initiate that someone turns off the voltage.
Do not leave the machine until you are absolutely sure that voltage in the line, which had been touched or damaged, has been turned off! Start and operate the engine only in a well ventilated area. If necessary, open doors and windows. Warm up the engine and hydraulic system to operating temperatures. Low engine and hydraulic oil temperatures can cause the excavator to be unresponsive. Before moving the machine, make sure that the attachments and equipment is secured properly to avoid accidents. Check that all attachment functions are operating properly.
When travelling on public roads, make sure to observe traffic regulations, and make sure that the machine meets federal and local public highway standards. Move the excavator slowly into an open area and check all travel functions for their proper operation, check travel and swing brakes, the steering function as well as the turn signals and lights. Always turn on the lights if visibility is bad or if you are still working during dusk. MACHINE OPERATING SAFETY Never allow other personnel on the excavator. Familiarize yourself with job site rules. Be informed about traffic and hand signals and safety signs. Ask who is responsible for signalling.
Check your surrounding for any obstacles in the working and movement range, check the load carrying capacity of the terrain, and secure the job site to shield it from any public highway traffic. Rope off the working area of the machine and install the necessary signs to forbid any non authorized person entering the area. Operate the excavator only while seated and with the seat belt fastened, if installed. Report any problems or needed repairs to your foreman or supervisor and make sure they are corrected immediately. Do not move the excavator until you are certain that no one is endangered by moving the excavator.
On machines without negative brakes check the brake system before starting to work, as outlined in the Operation and Maintenance Manual. Always keep a safe distance from overhangs, walls, drop offs, and unstable ground. Never leave the operators seat while the machine is still moving. Be alert of changing weather conditions, bad or insufficient visibility and of changing ground conditions. Never leave the machine unattended (within view of machine), with the engine running. Be alert for utility lines, check the location of underground cables, gas and water lines, and work especially careful in that vicinity.
If necessary and/ or if required, call local authorities to mark the location, and take precaution against contact with underground utilities. When moving the excavator, keep the uppercarriage in lengthwise direction and keep the load as close as possible to the ground. Keep sufficient distance to electrical lines. When working in the vicinity of high voltage electrical 2.5