Safe Operating Procedures for Skid Steer Loader

Purpose

To define the safeoperating procedures in a manner that informs and instructs employees of [Employer/Organization Name] of the key health and safety hazards and controls to remember when using the skid steer loader.

Hazards

The following hazards may occur when using the skid steer loader:

  • Critical injury or fatality
  • Crushing injury
  • Musculoskeletal disorder
  • Puncture (hydraulic fluid under pressure)
  • Roll-over
  • Fire

Personal Protective Equipment

  • Safety footwear
  • Eye protection
  • Hearing protection

Safe Operating Procedure

  • Complete a pre-use inspection. If any defects are noted, the equipment must be removed from service and the supervisor must be notified immediately to ensure equipment is repaired.
  • Operators must have read and understood the operator’s manual.
  • Ensure operator’s manual for equipment is available to operators.
  • Ensure guards and shields are firmly in place and in good condition. Do not operate the equipment without appropriate guards, shields, plates and other safety protective devices in place.
  • Skid steer loader should be equipped with a cab and rollover protective structure (ROPS).
  • Operator will wear a seatbelt on skid steer loaders equipped with ROPS.
  • Ensure safety decals are legible, order replacements if they are not.
  • Ensure the equipment is used properly as per manufacturer’s directions.
  • Complete a walkaround of the immediate work area prior to starting. Look for obstacles that may need to be removed.
  • Always call the appropriate utility companies to confirm the locations of all underground lines, pipes and wires. Also, ensure clearance of overhead hazards.
  • Be aware of the equipment’s limits.
  • Check all fluids.
  • Confirm all controls are in proper working order.
  • Ensure all control levers are in neutral or off position before starting.
  • Keep all bystanders away from the equipment during operation.
  • Only operate the equipment from the operator’s seat with the seatbelt fastened.
  • Do not allow passengers on the equipment.
  • Before exiting the equipment, always lower the bucket to the ground and engage the parking brake.
  • Operate the equipment at a speed that allows you maintain control at all times. Drive slowly over rough terrain and avoid stumps and other obstacles.
  • Use extreme caution on inclines and edges where the ground could give way.
  • Do not try to turn on a steep slope as this could result in a roll-over.
  • When driving with a load, keep the bucket as low as possible to avoid roll-over.
  • When you change the angle of the bucket or remove the bucket:
  • Securely block the bucket to prevent it from falling.
  • Do not stand with your feet under the bucket.
  • Accessories can only be used that are designed for use with the equipment specified.
  • Use steps and handholds correctly. Face the equipment when getting on and off.
  • Maintain 3-point contact with steps and handrails when getting on and off.
  • If possible, include a spotter with reflective clothing to assist in directing the equipment when backing up.
  • Fuelling must be done outdoors and while the equipment is off.
  • Repairs to the equipment must be performed by qualified personnel, using original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts or equivalent.

Additional Resources

SOP for Fuelling

SOP for Working Around Overhead or Underground Utilities

Ministry of Labour Occupational Health and Safety Guidelines for Farming Operations in Ontario

Document Management

Effective Date:
Revision Date: