Tips for Successfully Operating an Excavator
Your workday is dependent on productivity and safety, so if you are an excavator operator it is important to have a solid understanding of how to operate your machine. Of course, every machine is different and some situations may be unexpected, but we have put together a great list of tips to help you be a successful operator. West Hills Tractor is located in Jonesborough, TN, and proudly serves our neighbors in Johnson City and Greeneville as well.
Before You Begin Operating
Before you even sit in front of the controls, there are steps you should take to prepare yourself for operating. First and foremost, you should be up to date on your training! Ideally you will have had the opportunity for hands-on training with a certified instructor who can provide the best practices and safety measures for your specific machine.
Once you are up to date on training and are ready to begin your task, you should always start by inspecting your equipment. Do a general walk-around inspection to make sure nothing looks out of the ordinary. Doing this also allows you to double check the machine’s surroundings and ensure there are no obstructions or nearby obstacles to avoid. Finally, do an initial check of each function before you begin working to make sure there are no problems.
What to Do During Operation
While you are operating an excavator, the task at hand should have your complete focus. If you are working with others, either other operators or a ground crew, make sure there is adequate communication between everyone who is present.
As you operate, you should also be very aware of your surroundings and of any changes in the immediate working environment. Keeping the excavator steady is a primary concern as you operate. Try to choose the most even, level ground and if you need to make any turns, do so gradually. Keep the bucket low to the ground as you move the equipment for better visibility and to improve stability. Make sure to keep your speed in check as you navigate your work space! If you hit varying terrain at a high speed, you are at higher risk for an unwanted accident.
Shutting Down for the Day
Once you have reached the end of your task or workday, there are a few things you should keep in mind as you shut down the excavator. First, you should find a good location to park the machine. It should be a level space where you can safely lower the bucket to the ground.
After finding a good spot to park, you should turn off the auto-idle and allow the engine to run at half throttle. You should do this for a few minutes to allow the turbocharger to cool down. Set the RPM to a low idle and then proceed to shut off the engine. Exit the excavator and make sure to lock up!
Post-Operation Maintenance
At the end of your day you should do one final general inspection of the excavator. Make sure there is no sign of abnormal leaks, damage or obstructions. It may also be necessary to top off the fuel for the next operator or work day. Take a look at the owner’s manual or consult your supervisor to determine if there are any other daily maintenance tasks that should be completed to increase the longevity of your excavator.
Being a successful operator takes proper training, preparation, and skill, but hopefully these tips will help you succeed! Our team at West Hills Tractor would love to be a resource for any operators in the Johnson City and Greeneville, TN, areas. Plus, we offer financing, parts, and service at our Jonesborough, TN, location.