Shutdown, Parking, Transport, Refuelling and Emergency Procedures
Correct shutdown protects the machine and the people around it. Park on firm, level ground where possible, lower all attachments to the ground, apply the parking brake, neutralise the controls, switch off the engine, remove the key, and isolate where the machine is to be left. Where parking on a slope is unavoidable, chock the tracks and position the machine safely. Before leaving the cab, check that no one is in the machine's vicinity and that the machine cannot move.
Transport by low-loader requires planning: the ramps must be suitable for the machine's weight and track width, the trailer must be rated for the load, the machine must be secured with suitable restraints, and the driver must be competent. The machine is usually driven on with the heaviest end toward the ramp and secured with the bucket down and the brake on. Refuelling requires the engine off, no ignition sources, bunded or drip-tray arrangements, spill kit available, and PPE including gloves and eye protection; spills must be contained and reported.
Emergency procedures include fire (raise the alarm, evacuate, use the extinguisher only if trained and safe), injury (first aid and call for help), and service strike (evacuate and call the appropriate authority). The operator must know the site emergency arrangements, assembly point and communication method.
Traps: parking with the bucket raised or the key left in; refuelling with the engine running; and assuming the low-loader driver is responsible for securing the machine. Another trap is trying to fight a fire that is beyond the first-aid stage.
Rule of thumb: park it low, brake it, key out, isolate. Worked example: a fire starts in the engine compartment. Stop the machine, switch off, evacuate, raise the alarm, and only use an extinguisher if trained and the fire is small and you have a clear escape route.