7. PRECAUTIONS DURING OPERATION
7.1 BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
SAFETY AT WORKSITE
• Before starting the engine, thoroughly check the area for any unu-
sual conditions that could be dangerous.
• Before starting the engine, examine the terrain and soil conditions
of the worksite. Determine the best and safest method of operation.
• Make the slope as horizontal as possible before continuing opera-
tions.
• If you need to operate on a street, protect pedestrians and cars by
designating a person for worksite traffic duty or by installing fences
around the worksite.
• If water lines, gas lines, and high-voltage electrical lines may be
buried under the worksite, contact each utility and identify their lo-
cations. Be careful not to sever or cut any of these lines.
• Check the depth and flow of water before operating in water or
crossing a river. NEVER be in water which is in excess of the per-
missible water depth.
Permissible water depth
See
12.11 "PRECAUTIONS FOR OPERATION."
FIRE PREVENTION
• Thoroughly remove wood chips, leaves, paper and other flamma-
ble things accumulated on the engine compartment. They could
cause a fire.
• Check fuel, lubrication, and hydraulic systems for leaks. Have any
leaks repaired. Wipe up any excess oil, fuel or other flammable
fluids.
Check point
See 12.1.1 "WALK-AROUND CHECK."
• Be sure a fire extinguisher is present and working.
IN OPERATOR'S CAB
• Do not leave tools or spare parts lying around in the operator's
compartment. They may damage or break the control levers or
switches. Always put them in the tool box on the left side of the
machine.
• Keep the cab floor, controls, steps and handrails free of oil, grease,
snow, and excess dirt.
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