SAFETY MACHINE OPERATION SAFETY q When traveling up a steep slope, extend the work equipment to the front to improve the balance, keep the work equipment approximately 40 to 50cm (15.8 to 19.7 in) above the ground, and travel at low speed. q When traveling downhill, lower the engine speed, keep the travel lever close to the neutral position, and travel at low speed. q Always travel straight up or down a slope. Traveling at an angle or across the slope is extremely dangerous. q Do not turn on slopes or travel across slopes. Always go down to a flat place to change the position of the machine, then travel on to the slope again.
q Travel on grass, fallen leaves, or wet steel plates with low speed. Even with slight slopes there is a hazard that the machine may slip. q If the engine stops when the machine is traveling on a slope, move the control levers immediately to the neutral position and start the engine again. OPERATIONS ON SLOPES q When working on slopes, there is a hazard that the machine may lose its balance and turn over when the swing or work equipment are operated. This may lead to serious injury or property damage, so always provide a stable place when carrying out these operations, and operate carefully.
q Do not swing the work equipment from the uphill side to the downhill side when the bucket is loaded. This operation is dangerous, and may cause the machine to tip over. q If the machine has to be used on a slope, pile the soil to make a platform (A) that will keep the machine as horizontal as pos- sible. PROHIBITED OPERATIONS q Never dig the work face under an overhang. There is a haz- ard that rocks may fall or that the overhang may collapse and fall on top of the machine. 2-26