Safe Operating Procedure
Instructions Manual
Tractor
PPE Required
![]()
General Safety Instructions
- Complete pre-start checklist
- Read Manufacturers Operation Manual (www.flexihire.com.au)
- Report any faults or damage to Flexihire 1300FLEXIHIRE
- Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry
- Do not operate equipment near pedestrians or people
- Do not operate without the appropriate PPE as detailed
- Do not operate equipment under the influence of drugs or alcohol
General Engine Safety
- Refueling Do not smoke, or introduce an ignition source, always turn the engine off and allow the engine to cool first, relieve fuel pressure by loosening the cap slowly, and wipe clean any fuel spills prior to re-start, If fuel spilled on clothes change clothes, ensure cap is replaced & store fuel vessel away from the work area
- Do not breathe fuel vapor & replace the cap securely after fuelling
- Do not operate the engine without adequate ventilation
- Beware of hot surfaces on engine & other parts
Risk Assessment
- Assess the immediate work area for any hazards
- Control or eliminate all the risks associated with the hazards
- Hazards to check for that may require risk control-
❑ Overhead power lines
❑ Digging
❑ Confined space
❑ Traffic & moving machinery
❑ Stored energy – air, hydraulic, electricity, pressure
❑ Working at height
❑ Falling objects
❑ High Voltage
❑ Any stored energy
Operating Safety Instructions
| Systems alarms may be equipped which indicate imminent hazards which should not be ignored – see operation manual. Always stop when an alarm or warning present | If the machine tips – do not jump, brace yourself, stay in the cab, keep your seatbelt fastened, hold on and lean away from point of contact |
| The operator must be competent to operate a skid steer loader | Ensure adequate clearance for the full swing of the machine |
| Do not exceed lift capacity of the machine – understand lift charts | Ensure all mirrors are in place prior to operation |
| Ensure ground conditions will support the machine and load | Sound horn before moving and when turning |
| Do not drive with a bucket raised | Always check clearances before driving under objects |
| Do not raise bucket unless the machine is on level ground 0 degrees | Never carry persons in bucket |
| Carry loads low as possible and tether to stop swaying loads | Never operate machine near overhead power lines |
| Start, stop, turn and travel slowly to avoid swinging the load | Always park on flat level ground and engage the park brake |
| Do not carry persons on the machine | Driving on slopes Unloaded machine – rear of the machine is the heavy end and drive with bucket pointed downhill Loaded machine – The front of the machine is the heavy end and drive with the bucket pointed uphill When driving downhill use low gear, low speed, and do not engage neutral Avoid excessively steep slopes and never drive across them Avoid turning on a steep slope |
| Report any damage to the cabin (ROPS) structure and cease use | |
| Maintain proper tire pressure – refer to manufacturer specifications | |
| Always wear a seat belt | |
| Keep all parts of the body within the frame at all times | |
| Avoid turning the engine off or applying a parking brake when moving as the machine could stop abruptly causing the load to shift or fall | |
| Beware of climbing in and out of the loader Never climb out of the loader with the engine running | Do not service, attempt to repair, or modify machine unless competent and without engine off and parked with keys removed |
| Never attempt to start the loader with anyone nearby or whilst not seated in the operator seat with the seat belt fastened | Check the work site prior to use and ensure free from obstacles, blind spots, and pedestrians – never operate near observers or other people |
| Do not operate the loader without the reverse beeper working and the flashing beacon – inspect daily | Load attachments using the machine and do not have another person assist – keep them well away from an operating machine |
| Never allow children to operate the machine | Never allow children to be near operating machines |
| Connect hydraulic attachments after they are secured and pinned in place and ensure the engine is switched off | Never use the machine to lift and move fuel vessels |
| Only used approved attachments on the machine | Never open the radiator cap when the engine is running or hot |
| Beware of hot parts and high pressure in hydraulics – always switch the engine off first before touching hydraulic lines. Beware that pressure can exist in the lines even with the engine switched off – wear eye protection | Never operate or start the machine from outside the cab or seat as you could move the controls the wrong way and cause serious injury. Also never operate the machine with another person helping as they can be crushed |
| When entering and leaving the cab always use the handrails, and steps and always maintain 3 points of contact | Do not dig deeper than 1M without shoring Beware of oxygen deficiencies and gas build-up in pits and holes |
| Always contact local authorities prior to performing any digging to identify underground services | When loading or unloading on a trailer ensure the trailer is attached to a vehicle and do not load or unload on a hill. |
FMS10-5.1.3.9.4.5 Tractor
Version #: FLX 3.1
Issue: October 2021
Review: October 2026


















