Skidsteers are some of the most common pieces of equipment on a demolition or construction site.
Running a skidsteer requires skill and coordination. Only trained personnel should be assigned to operate a skidsteer. The operator must understand the capabilities of the machine and its limitations. Operator must be familiar with the work environment and know floor loading capacity, make sure jobsite has proper lighting, know the locations of floor openings or leading edges, where other workers and trades will be, and if baricades or spotters will be required.
Operator must wear a seatbelt at all times. Required personal protective equipment is a hard hat, safety glasses, and hearing protection.
Operators must inspect the skid steer daily before operating. Check the oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, fuel, lights, seat bars, seat belts, tires, arms, and attachments.
As the operator, you must be aware of the surrounding work environment at all times. If you are another worker onsite, you must also be aware of where the skidsteer is operating. Operator must always physically turn their head around when backing up to make sure nobody is behind them. Never back up without looking to make sure nobody is behind you. Operator needs to be aware of where the equipment blind spots are.
If you are a worker onsite, do not assume the skidsteer operator sees you and never enter equipment blind spots. Always maintain eye contact with operator if you need to approach him and make sure the operator sees you.
When loading out debris or dirt, do not overload the bucket. Take smaller bites and lift the loads carefully. Avoid sudden jerks or stops or overloading the bucket. These can cause the skid steer to tip or roll.
Always lower the bucket before you begin to travel. Use extra caution on slopes. The weight in the bucket should always be pointed up the slope.