Skid Steer Operation

• Other Workers
• Pinch points
• Rollover
• Crush injuries

• High visibility vest
• Hard hat
• Steel-toe boots
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

• Equipment training
• Operator’s manual
• Pre-task hazard assessment training
• Pre-task inspection training

1. Identify underground and overhead utilities before work begins. Place additional markers if necessary.
2. Ensure the work area is stable, well-lit, and clear of unnecessary obstacles.
3. Complete your hazard Assessment.
4. Coordinate with other trades and site supervisor
5. Communicate work schedule and work areas with site supervisor and other trades
6. Establish hand signals or radio communication protocols with spotters
7. Establish exclusion zones with barriers or cones to keep trades and public away.
8. Set up a control zone and inform fellow workers in the area you will be operating a skid steer.

Pre-Use Inspection and Start Up

1. Walk around equipment, checking tires/tracks, fluid levels, hydraulics, lights, and ROPS.
2. Inspect bucket/attachments for cracks, wear, or defects.
3. Enter the cab facing the equipment and using three points of contact. The bucket should be on the ground.
4. Fasten seat belt or lower the safety bar.
5. Start the machine.
6. Allow proper warm-up time for hydraulic and engine systems
7. Test all controls at low pressure before starting normal operations.
8. Verify safety devices (backup alarm, seat belt, interlocks) are working.
9. Document your equipment inspection

During Operation

1. Keep bucket/attachments low when traveling.
2. Drive at safe speeds, especially around people, equipment, or homes.
3. Approach and dump load slowly and steadily.
4. Avoid operating across steep slopes; travel up/down slopes cautiously, holding your load low and upslope.
5. Use spotters when working in congested area or with limited visibility.
6. Prior to backing up, sound horn twice, check your travel path and/or follow spotter directions.
7. Stop work immediately if pedestrians enter the exclusion zone.
8. Utility line strikes or damage.
9. Stop work immediately and shut off equipment.
10. Any vehicle / equipment that has come into contact with utility lines are to be left in place.
11. If contact with electric line, remain in the equipment, unless it is not safe.
12. Follow the specific directions listed in Contact with Electric or Natural Gas Lines ERP.

During Operation – Shut Down

1. Lower bucket/attachments to the ground.
2. Place controls in neutral, set the parking brake.
3. Shut off engine and remove key.
4. Dismount using three points of contact.

Post Operation

1. Restore pedestrian access and vehicle access routes.
2. Report any defects or maintenance needs.
3. Park equipment in a designated safe area away from traffic and pedestrians.