Top skid-steer safety tips

Depending on your job and industry, you may be responsible for operating a skid-steer. Even if you aren’t, there’s always a chance that you will be working in close proximity to somebody who is.

Just the same as any vehicle, operating a skid-steer takes great skill. Furthermore, it only takes one mistake to cause a serious accident.

Here are several skid-steer safety tips that you need to follow at all times:

Wear a seat belt and/or use the restraint bar
Never exceed the operating capacity
Regularly examine the skid-steer for defects and other problems
You should never allow anyone to ride on the skid-steer
Stop the engine before leaving the seat
Keep a clear field of vision
Don’t drive too fast
Never operate a skid-steer from anywhere but the operator’s seat
Be aware of all moving parts
Let others know when you will be using the vehicle
Never move, lift, or swing a load over top of a person

These are the types of tips that can help keep you and other people safe when using a skid-steer on a job site.

If for any reason this type of vehicle injures you, there are several key steps you need to take.

First off, seek immediate medical attention. Also, make sure your notify your employer of the accident and your injuries.

When you do these two things, you’ll find it easier to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. If your claim is initially denied, learn why this happened and what you can do about it. You may need to include more information when filing an appeal.

Source: Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, “Top 10 Suggestions For Skid-Steer Safety,” accessed July 25, 2017