Make Sure That the Area Is Safe
Before you start operating the wheel loader, safety should be the priority. Always have a first aid kit and firefighter kit at the site for emergencies.
Wear The Appropriate PPE
The operator should always wear personal protective equipment before going to the vehicle. This includes a hard hat, safety boots, gloves, protective glasses, ear muffs, masks, and high visibility protection. In cases where there are weather changes, raincoats and jackets may be used.
Inspect The Wheel Loader
Before going into the vehicle, take time to inspect for any problems. In some construction sites, they require checklists for this. This will depend on the brand and model of loader you use. Some examples of areas to check are the buckets and the tires.
Warm Up the Engine
Before driving a wheel loader, it is important to let the engine warm-up. Check your manual if you can operate immediately after startup because other engines warm up early in the operation. This is because cold oil does not work well to lubricate the vehicle.
Drive Safely
When operating the wheel loader, there are some things to remember. The first one is to always make a mental note of the materials that you are loading. Some materials, like sand, may be easier to excavate than clay, which is packed tightly. Assess the weight of each excavation you make to make sure you stay within the limits and not damage the bucket.
Do Post Operation Checks
After the work is done, find parking that is safe and has even ground. Let the engine cool down for a few minutes depending on what the manufacturer requires. Check for any damages and complete a checklist similar to the one done before the operation. If you find any problems, it is recommended to report it immediately.
Perform Regular Maintenance
Just like with other vehicles, a wheel loader requires regular check-ups. This will ensure that it is in the best condition to be operated. This is important because the environment where it will be used is full of hazards. A malfunctioning loader can also pose risks to the operator and other people on the site.
