Safety Tips for Operating a Loader

Loaders can be a valuable addition to a company's fleet. They can transport heavy materials with impressive ease and efficiency, but they are not without risks.

While you can't eliminate every potential safety risk, you can take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of an incident. Below we cover effective safety measures for using a loader.

If you are in the market for a loader, check out the selection at Bobcat of Parry Sound. See the available models online or at our dealership in Parry Sound, Ontario.

Get the Proper Training

No matter how long you’ve been exposed to construction work, you should never attempt to operate a loader without the proper training. This entails being familiar with all operating functions, emergency procedures, and so on. This also includes any model-specific training, such as the given loader's weight capacity and control system.

Remember that attempting to handle these high-powered machines without the necessary training can put you at risk of serious injury and expensive damage to your loader!

Keep Up With Loader Maintenance

You also need to make sure your loader is in the proper working condition before you think of putting it to work. Faulty or damaged equipment not only leads to decreased performance, but can also put you in harm's way during its operation. The best way to avoid this is to conduct daily inspections and keep up with routine maintenance.

Monitor Your Surroundings

Your surroundings can also play a key role while operating your loader. You should always get a lay of your environment and check for any debris and obstacles that may cause damage to your loader during use. Ensuring you have a clear line of sight will also help prevent injuries to any bystanders while you operate your loader.

Reduce the Risk of a Rollover

Once weight gets added to a loader, the equipment's center of gravity changes. This can increase the chances of the loader tipping over.

There are a few ways to reduce the likelihood of a rollover. First, keep the loader's bucket as low as possible when the equipment is in motion. Second, focus on smooth loader operation. Avoid any quick starts or stops as well as sharp turns.

We hope you found this safety guide helpful! For all of your loader needs, the experts at Bobcat of Parry Sound are here for you. We carry a range of loaders for sale to suit a range of needs. We also operate a service department that can help keep your loader in optimal condition. To get started, contact us or stop by our dealership. We are based in Parry Sound, Ontario, and also proudly serve those in Muskoka and North Bay.