NOTE: Do not load a ditcher on a tilt-bed trailer in
damp, wet weather.
The combination of the ditcher design, brakes, and
smooth tracks makes it almost impossible to stop on an
incline while loading or unloading; therefore, it is
important to use a proper ramp or loading platform to
load the ditcher. For safety, load and unload the ditcher
in low gear, and if you do not have a proper ramp, see
that a crane is used to load and unload the ditcher.
SAFETY
The following are standard safety precautions for
ditchers:
. Do not leave the operator’s seat unless you have
stopped the ditcher and disconnected all power from the
engine to the ditcher.
. Do not engage the engine clutch too fast. Let it
engage gradually to prevent damage to the gear cases
and 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 for
unusual sounds or odors. These are danger signs and
should be investigated to prevent downtime.
. When the ditcher is secured, the bucket line must
always be raised clear of the trench.
. Ditches left open must be flagged by day and
properly lighted at night.
. Do not let anyone work or stand close to the
digging boom. In a cave-in, the person might be pulled
into the boom or other moving parts. Also, if an
electrical line is hit, people standing nearby could be
hurt.
l Before digging, be sure you have a digging
permit. You should know and have marked all
underground obstructions.
CAUTION
Never try to remove an object from the
conveyor belt while the conveyor is running.
l Never raise the boom of the ditcher more than
you have to while on an incline, because the ditcher is
easily upset.
. Wear the required personal protective equip-
ment, such as steel toe shoes, hard hat, and gloves.
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