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Safe Operating Procedure
Post Hole Digger
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 cap slowly, 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 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
❑Working at height
❑Falling objects
❑High Voltage
❑Any stored energy
❑Stored energy – air, hydraulic, electricity, pressure
Operating Safety Instructions
| Operate in a ventilated area, engines produce toxic fumes | Avoid operating in confined spaces like trenches |
| Petrol is very flammable so keep naked flames or ignition sources away | Beware of auger at all times, as it can cause serious damage |
| Never wear lose fitting clothes or long hair | Do not go anywhere near the auger as it is extremely powerful |
| Do not operate in the vicinity of children | Check the ground before digging and do not attempt to dig rocky ground as the auger can get caught and cause serious harm |
| Know where the stop lever is and know all control levers | Never use on a slope greater than 15% |
| Check all couplings and attachments are fitted correctly before starting | Do not allow other persons near the machine |
| Never operate the digger when fatigued | Do not leave unattended while running |
| Do not over speed the engine as this can be dangerous | Hydraulic diggers operate under extreme hydraulic oil pressure never disconnect lines whilst engine is running. Never operate with known leaks |
| Never change attachments, work on the machine or perform maintenance without the engine off and the spark lead removed | Do not use the post hole digger for anything other than digging holes as it was designed |
| Do not operate the post hole digger on slippery ground | If the auger jams the pressure relief may be activated, remove the pressure, remove the auger and start again. It may be required to reverse the auger to remove it |
| Ensure you contact local authorities to locate in-ground services such as water pipes, gas pipes, and electrical cables before you begin digging | Do not dig deeper than 1M without shoring |
| Always contact local authorities prior to performing any digging to identify underground services | Beware of oxygen deficiencies and gas build-up in pits and holes |
FMS10-5.1.3.9.6.5 SOP Post Hole Digger
Version #: FLX 3.1
Issue: October 2021
Review: October 2026
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