32 Safety Section (D6T LGP (OEM)) WEBM1000 Operator Station b. Slow down when it is necessary to go over rough terrain. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU8257, “The European Union Physical Agents (Vibration) Directive 2002/44/EC” for more information about vibration. 8. Minimize vibrations for a long work cycle or a long travel distance. a. Use machines that are equipped with suspension systems. Consult your local Caterpillar dealer for more information about machine features that minimize vibration levels. Consult your local Caterpillar dealer about safe machine operation. b. Use the ride control system on Track-Type Tractors.
Use the following web site in order to find your local dealer: c. If no ride control system is available, reduce speed in order to prevent bounce. Caterpillar, Inc. www.cat.com Operator Station d. Haul the machines between workplaces. 9. Less operator comfort may be caused by other risk factors. The following guidelines can be effective in order to provide better operator comfort: Any modifications to the inside of the operator station should not project into the operator space or into the space for the companion seat (if equipped).
The addition of a radio, fire extinguisher, and other equipment must be installed so that the defined operator space and the space for the companion seat (if equipped) is maintained. Any item that is brought into the cab should not project into the defined operator space or the space for the companion seat (if equipped). A lunch box or other loose items must be secured. Objects must not pose an impact hazard in rough terrain or in the event of a rollover. a. Adjust the seat and adjust the controls in order to achieve good posture. b. Adjust the mirrors in order to minimize twisted posture. c. Provide breaks in order to reduce long periods of sitting. d. Avoid jumping from the cab.
Guards (Operator Protection) e. Minimize repeated handling of loads and lifting of loads. f. Minimize any shocks and impacts during sports and leisure activities. There are different types of guards that are used to protect the operator. The machine and the machine application determines the type of guard that should be used. Sources A daily inspection of the guards is required in order to check for structures that are bent, cracked or loose. Never operate a machine with a damaged structure.
The vibration information and calculation procedure is based on “ISO/TR 25398 Mechanical Vibration - Guideline for the assessment of exposure to whole body vibration of ride on operated earthmoving machines”. Harmonized data is measured by international institutes, organizations and manufacturers. The operator becomes exposed to a hazardous situation if the machine is used improperly or if poor operating techniques are used. This situation can occur even though a machine is equipped with an appropriate protective guard. Follow the established operating procedures that are recommended for your machine.
This literature provides information about assessing the whole body vibration exposure of operators of earthmoving equipment. The method is based on measured vibration emission under real working conditions for all machines. You should check the original directive. This document summarizes part of the content of the applicable law. This document is not meant to substitute the original sources. Other parts of these documents are based on information from the United Kingdom Health and Safety Executive.