Best Practices
Proper Compact Track Loader and Skid Steer Operation
Stay safe and productive on the job
The sheer number of tasks that can be completed with compact track loaders and skid steers make them a critical piece of equipment on every jobsite. Follow these best practices to ensure you are operating at peak performance and that you are getting the most out of your machines.
The safety basics
When it comes to CTL and SSL operation, safety needs to come first. Rollover accidents are the leading cause of injury and death during operation, and the sad part is, wearing a seatbelt usually would have been enough to prevent either. Even if the machine features a ROPS system, operators should always wear their seatbelt, no matter how short the distance or light the load.
The basic, common sense practice that will help ensure safety, is never transporting personnel in the bucket or attachments. Only one person should ever be operating a skid steer or compact track loader. Riding in the bucket or falling off these machines can result in serious injury or death.
Proper Operation
When it comes to driving a compact track loader or skid steer loader, operators should never travel across slopes. If they have to go up or down then it is best to travel in a straight line up and down. This way the operator can achieve maximum stability, greatly reducing the risk of rollover accidents. When no load is being carried, the rear of the machine is usually heavier.
Drivers should never leave the operator's station while the engine is running or when the arms are raised. Buckets can drop or lower unexpectedly, hitting or crushing bystanders and causing injury or death. Never start the machine or make adjustments from outside the cab, and never allow someone to walk under raised arms.
