Taproot System Safety Procedures and Hazards

This document outlines the critical safety procedures and potential hazards associated with working on or around equipment utilizing taproot systems. It is essential to understand these guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.

General Safety Procedures

Seat Belt Use

Always wear a seat belt while operating the machine to reduce the risk of personal injury. [1]

Safe Maintenance Practices

Unauthorized modifications to the machine may impair safety, machine function, and/or affect machine life. Always use a safety support or brace when working on, under, or around the machine or forks. Do not adjust or lubricate the machine while it is in motion. Shut off the engine and lockout the ignition while working on the machine unless maintenance instructions require the engine to be running. Replace all shields and guards after servicing. Never use the machine as a platform for lifting personnel. [1]

Boom Safety

Do not enter the danger area under or around the boom when the forks are off the ground or while the engine is running. Serious personal injury could result if the boom should unexpectedly drop. Before any work is performed in the danger area, the boom must be completely lowered and the forks must be resting on the ground. [1]

Hydraulic Safety

Hydraulic System Procedures

Hot hydraulic oil can cause severe burns. Do not work on the hydraulic system if the oil temperature exceeds 120 degrees F (49 degrees C). Before anyone works on the hydraulic system, lower the boom to the horizontal position, support the boom to avoid unintentional lowering, shut down the engine, remove the key from the ignition, and clean the area around the oil reservoir cap. [2]

Fluid Under Pressure

Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate the skin and cause serious personal injury. Use a piece of cardboard or paper to search for leaks; do not use hands. Before disconnecting hydraulic lines, be sure to relieve all line pressure. Before applying pressure to the system, be sure that all connections are tight. Do not apply pressure to a damaged line, hose, or fitting. If injured by escaping fluid, see a doctor at once. Proper medical treatment must be administered immediately, as a serious infection or reaction can result without proper medical treatment. [2]

Welding Precautions

Do not weld on any structural member. Any unauthorized welding can cause structural failure or possible personal injury and will void the machine warranty. Before performing any authorized welding, disconnect the positive lead from the battery and properly attach the ground cable of the welder to the frame member being welded. Failure to do so can cause electrical system damage. [2]

Refueling Safety

Handle fuel with care, as it is highly flammable. Do not refuel the machine while smoking or when near open flames or sparks. Always stop the engine before refueling the machine and fill the fuel tank outdoors. Prevent fires by keeping the machine clean of trash, grease, and debris, and always clean up spilled fuel. [3]

Slips and Falls

When getting on and off the machine, always maintain three-point contact with steps and handrails while facing the machine. Do not use the steering wheel or any other controls as handrails. Never jump on or off the machine. Be careful of slippery conditions on platforms, steps, and handrails when getting on and off the machine. Always shut off the engine before leaving the operator's station. [3]

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