Safe Operation
Safe operation tests your control of the machine, communication and shutdown, not just your ability to push soil.
Start and travel
- Complete the walk-around, fasten the seat belt, adjust mirrors and test horn and brakes. Know the route and agreed signals.
- Keep blade or attachment low when travelling; use a spotter where visibility is restricted; no riders.
- Observe speed, gradients and ground; travel straight up or down slopes where possible rather than across them.
Communication and shutdown
- Agree signals with the banksman and stop if you lose sight or signal.
- Park on firm, level ground; lower blade and ripper, neutralise controls, apply parking brake, isolate and secure the key.
Worked example: You need to reverse to a stockpile edge. Reasoning: walk the route first, confirm no pedestrians, use a banksman and keep speed low. Stop at the edge marker; do not rely on mirrors alone because the blade and stockpile obscure the rear.
Traps: travelling with the blade high, reversing without a spotter, and leaving controls live at shutdown.
Key points
- Complete pre-start checks and seat belt before moving.
- Keep blade low when travelling.
- Use agreed signals and a banksman.
- No riders and no pedestrians in the working area.
- Park with attachment lowered, brake on and isolated.