Compact Track Loaders
Compact track loaders (CTLs) look like skid steers on rubber tracks. The tracks give better traction and lower ground pressure on soft ground, but the machine still tips, crushes and strikes people. Many fatalities involve bystanders and operators not using restraints.
- Operators
- Landscape & Construction
- Ground Crews
Hazards
- Rollovers from slopes, uneven ground and raised loads. See Equipment Rollovers.
- Struck-by and crush hazards for people near the machine, especially behind it. See Backing & Spotters.
- Operator entrapment if the restraint bar is not used.
- Falling loads and lift arm crush points.
- Hydraulic leaks that can inject fluid into skin. See Hydraulic Hazards.
- Entry and exit falls from the cab.
- Attachments that change stability and visibility. See Equipment Attachments.
Operator practices
- Get trained and authorized on the machine and each attachment. Read the operator's manual and load limits. See Operator Training & Evaluation.
- Do a pre-operation inspection: tracks and undercarriage, fluid levels, leaks, lights, alarms, lift arm lock, quick coupler pins and seat belt.
- Enter and exit facing the machine using three points of contact, only when the arms are lowered and the engine is off or in the proper park mode. Never use the bucket or arms to climb in or out.
- Fasten the seat belt and lower the restraint bar before starting. Keep arms, legs and head inside the cab.
- Carry loads low, travel straight up and down slopes instead of across them, and stay below the slope limit.
- Make wide turns slowly. Avoid sudden stops and sharp turns on slopes.
- Check surroundings, use mirrors or cameras, and keep other workers out of the swing and travel zone.
- Never lift people with the bucket or forks. Never carry passengers.
- Lower attachments, shut off the engine, set the parking brake and remove the key when you leave.
Daily checklist
- Seat belt and restraint bar work
- Tracks have proper tension and no damage
- Attachment is locked on with the coupler pins in place
- No hydraulic leaks; fire extinguisher is present
- Ground workers and operator agree on signals
Standards & references
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