12SAFETYPreparing PrecautionsAlways keep the machine clean¡Clean windows, mirrors and lights toensure good visibility.¡Wipe off any oil, grease, mud, snow orice, to prevent accidents due to slipping.¡Remove all loose objects stored in themachine and all objects which do notbelong in or on the machine and itsequipment.¡Remove any dirt, oil or grease from theengine area, to prevent fires.¡Clean the area around the operator’s seat,removing any potential obstacles.Know the working areaBefore starting operation, know the workingarea to ensure safety.¡Check the topography and groundcondition of the working area, or thestructure of the building when workingindoors, and take the necessary safetymeasures in dangerous spots.¡Note and avoid all hazards andobstructions such as ditches, undergroundlines, trees, cliffs, overhead electrical wiresor areas where there is danger of a slide.¡Check with the local utilities for thelocations of buried gas and water pipesand buried power cables. Determine jointlywhat specific precautions must be takento insure safety.¡When working on roads, be sure to takeinto account the safety of pedestrians andvehicles.• Use a flagman and/or signals.• Fence off the working area and prohibitentry to unauthorized persons.¡When working in water or crossing shallowstreams or creeks, check the depth of thewater, the solidity of the ground, and thespeed of the current beforehand. Makesure the water is not deeper than theallowable depth.Refer to the section titled “Cautions onOperating” for further instructions.
