This week Cam decided he needed a handier way to strip off the top layer of sod from the lawn. With the help from his nephew Bert, he decided to attach a front-end loader onto the bumper of his car. We definitely don’t recommend and suggest following our safety tips on operating front-end loaders…
General Safety Precautions
We advise you follow these general safety precautions when using any front-end loaders:
- Ensure people stand well back from the area of operation.
- Do not ride or work in the bucket or use it as a work platform.
- Know the area, including overhead powerlines, uneven terrain, or present obstacles.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding a counterweight to the back of the tractor.
- Wheels should be set to the widest possible setting.
- Never leave the front-end loader with the bucket raised.
- Only use the front-end loader for its intended purpose, which does not include towing or knocking objects down.
- Detach the loader from the tractor when not in use.
Operating a Front-End Loader
- Only operate the controls from the driver’s seat of the front-end loader.
- Travel in a straight line when the bucket is lowered for loading or raised for unloading.
- Keep the load in the bucket balanced.
- When traveling, keep the bucket low to the ground to keep the front-end loader from overturning should the tractor tip forward.
- Travel at low speeds, avoiding jerky movements and abrupt turns. Do not load and turn simultaneously.
- Back down hills when the bucket is loaded.
- The bucket should only be raised close to the dump site.
- When leaving the tractor, ensure the bucket is lowered, stop the engine, and engage the brakes.
Equipment operation is often best left to a professional, so extreme caution should be exercised.
Contact Us
Don’t be a Cam, please talk to your insurance broker before you embark on any DIY projects. myCH.ca is there to help you prepare in advance for what life might throw your way. If you are interested in discussing any insurance policy options with one of our skilled brokers, you can contact us:
- Calling your insurance broker or giving us a call at our main line: 306-757-0621.
- Filling out an online quote form.
- E-mailing us at hello@myCH.ca!