Raise Excavating Safety to New Heights

by Becky Schultz
Created: December 15, 2011

Proper setup and operation will keep excavators and operators safe and productive, whether in the trench or on the bench.

When digging a trench, start with a marking path and gradually go down layer by layer. This will improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
When digging a trench, start with a marking path and gradually go down layer by layer. This will improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Providing a stable platform for the excavator is an essential element of site setup. It's also important to position the machine at a productive height for loading material.
Providing a stable platform for the excavator is an essential element of site setup. It's also important to position the machine at a productive height for loading material.
Even a modest slope can present a potential tipover hazard if the excavator is not properly positioned and the recommended load chart is exceeded.
Even a modest slope can present a potential tipover hazard if the excavator is not properly positioned and the recommended load chart is exceeded.

“Super Long Front excavators have the digging forces turned down so they won’t damage the boom and arm by applying heavy forces through the structures,” Hendry adds. “Even the heaviest duty Long Fronts have reduced digging forces.”

Also essential to long-reach operation is patience. “SLF excavator operation is patient, deliberate, methodical and planned. Use pull and push movements only and absolutely no side sweeping of the bucket,” Hendry states.

“SLFs can be used for slope grading,” he adds, “if the machine is sitting flat on the ground and the operator can pull the grade to him.”