NOTE: Do not load a ditcher on a tilt-bed trailer indamp, wet weather.The combination of the ditcher design, brakes, andsmooth tracks makes it almost impossible to stop on anincline while loading or unloading; therefore, it isimportant to use a proper ramp or loading platform toload the ditcher. For safety, load and unload the ditcherin low gear, and if you do not have a proper ramp, seethat a crane is used to load and unload the ditcher.SAFETYThe following are standard safety precautions forditchers:. Do not leave the operator’s seat unless you havestopped the ditcher and disconnected all power from theengine to the ditcher.. Do not engage the engine clutch too fast. Let itengage gradually to prevent damage to the gear casesand other moving parts.l Do not fill the fuel tank with the engine running.l Do not let bolts and keys come loose. Be alert forunusual sounds or odors. These are danger signs andshould be investigated to prevent downtime.. When the ditcher is secured, the bucket line mustalways be raised clear of the trench.. Ditches left open must be flagged by day andproperly lighted at night.. Do not let anyone work or stand close to thedigging boom. In a cave-in, the person might be pulledinto the boom or other moving parts. Also, if anelectrical line is hit, people standing nearby could behurt.l Before digging, be sure you have a diggingpermit. You should know and have marked allunderground obstructions.CAUTIONNever try to remove an object from theconveyor belt while the conveyor is running.l Never raise the boom of the ditcher more thanyou have to while on an incline, because the ditcher iseasily upset.. Wear the required personal protective equip-ment, such as steel toe shoes, hard hat, and gloves.9-34
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