GRADER SAFETY

Safety precautions that apply to graders are as follows:

. Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from power-driven parts.

l Clothing worn by the operator should be relatively tight and belted. Do not wear loose jackets, shirts, sleeves, or other items of clothing because of the danger of catching them in moving parts.

l Before starting the engine, always check the service brakes and the parking brake to ensure they are in proper working condition.

. Do not use the steering wheel as a handhold when getting on and off the grader.

l Keep hands, floors, and controls free from water, grease, and mud to ensure nonslip control.

. Never attempt to start or operate the grader except from the operator's station.

. Always keep the grader in gear when going down steep hills or grades.

. When transporting or driving on a road or highway at night or during the day, use accessory lights and devices for adequate warning to the operators of other vehicles. In this regard, check local government regulations.

. Never drive too close to the edge of a ditch or excavation.

. Do not leave the engine running while making adjustments or repairs unless specifically recommended.

. Never refuel when the engine is running. Do not smoke while filling the fuel tank or servicing the fuel system.

. Never leave the grader unattended with the engine running.

l Do not oil, grease, or adjust any part of the grader while it is in motion.

. Check for faulty wiring or loose connections.

s Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel at all times when speed is increased.

. Do not allow anyone near the grader while the driver is in the seat with the engine running.

. Reduce speed before turning or applying brakes.

Drive at speeds slow enough to ensure your safety, especially over rough ground.

l Do not operate the grader so fast on hillsides or curves that you may tip over.

c When you are operating your grader, be sure your path ahead is clear to avoid collision with other equipment.

. Watch for overhead wires. Never touch wires with any part of the grader.

. Do not use the grader as a battering ram.

. Keep the working area as level as possible.

l Never allow anyone to work under a raised blade or other attachment.

. Do not leave the blade or other attachment in the raised position when it is not in use. Always lower it to the ground.

l Be sure bystanders are clear of the grader before lowering or moving the blade.

. Park the grader on level ground or across the slope.

. Remove all trash accumulation from the engine and the operator's station daily.

. Wear any required personal protective equipment.