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BACKGROUND: Studies show that a significant percentage of logging injuries occur during machine maintenance or repair, especially when done in the woods where conditions or tools are not ideal. Do not perform repairs in-woods that are beyond the capabilities of employees and tools. Do not operate or perform any work on a machine until you have read and understood the operation and maintenance manual supplied with the machine.

A walk-around inspection should be performed at the beginning of each shift, before the machine is placed in operation. If this inspection reveals any problems that could create a hazard, the machine must not be operated until these problems are corrected. Some examples include:

Before beginning any type of repair, put the machine into a zero energy state, and follow lockout-tagout procedures. (See LCO-2 Lockout—Tagout Overview and LCO-28 Zero Energy State)

Always protect the eyes, hands, and body from hazardous materials, such as fuels, oils, battery acid, ether, and materials containing asbestos. Use leak-proof containers when draining fluids, and dispose of them properly according to local regulations. Remember that high-pressure hydraulic systems and pressure grease systems may inject oil/grease into the skin or blood stream. Always wear proper personal protective equipment.

Locate the machine on a level site away from other operations. Support the equipment properly before performing any work or maintenance beneath equipment. Do not depend on the hydraulic cylinders to hold up the equipment. Equipment can fall if a control is moved, or if a hydraulic line breaks. Always “Block and Chock.”

Modifications must not be made to the machine that:

Be aware of the risk of equipment fire when performing machine maintenance or repairs, such as welding, cutting, and grinding. Minimize this risk by eliminating fluid leaks and daily removal of trash that may accumulate in the engine compartment. Keep access doors to major machine compartments in working order to permit the use of firefighting equipment. Do not attach electrical wiring to hoses and tubes that contain flammable or combustible fluids. As an additional safety measure, keep a 10-pound minimum fire extinguisher on the machine in a place accessible to the operator.

Prepared by the Southwide Safety Committee, Forest Resources Association Inc.

Please follow equipment manufacturer's recommendations for safe operation and maintenance procedures.