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Logging operations producing tree length and random length products utilize some form of mechanized loading. Loading may be performed with a hydraulic knuckleboom, a crawler type, or a rubber tired loader. These machines may be equipped with various grapple or fork attachments to handle logs.

1. HYDRAULIC KNUCKLEBOOM LOADERS

a. Follow the general prestart and starting guidelines for mobile woods equipment operation as pertaining to knuckleboom loaders.
b. Only a trained operator shall operate the machine.
c. Grapple, lift, and move logs only when the deck area is clear of workers and machines.
d. Always close the grapple completely around the log to prevent slipping or dropping. Avoid pinching a log with the grapple to lift or move.
e. Move the loader slowly and cautiously when moving a log to free a worker's pinched chainsaw. Chainsaw operator should maintain a firm grip with both hands (thumb around top handle) on the saw, stable footing, and should be alert to any unexpected saw or log movements.
f. Never move a log near or over a deck worker or equipment on the landing.
g. When not in operation, always lower the boom and rest the grapple on the ground or on a place on the carrier designed to hold the grapple.
h. Remove all standing trees or hazards which may impede the movement of logs while loading.
i. Maintain good visibility of the deck area and loading point.
j. Never attempt to overload a truck or trailer. Keep the load uniform and maintain the legal height, weight, and length limits for the state. Properly balance and saddle loads to prevent shifting.
k. When piling logs around the loader, maintain the log pile so as to prevent logs from rolling onto the deck area or into a transport vehicle.
l. Know and understand the loader's rated lifting capacity.
m. Keep the subframe, ladder, steps, and operator's platform clean of oil, grease, and mud to prevent a fall when mounting or dismounting.
n. Install appropriate rails and guards around operator platforms not equipped with a cab.
o. If the knuckleboom loader has an unprotected front window area, contact your dealer or manufacturer for installation of an approved operator's protection guard.
p. Operate the knuckleboom loader only after all stabilizer legs and pads are properly grounded.
q. Locate and maintain the loader in a level position.
r. Do not operate the loader within 100-feet of electric power transmission lines.
s. Do not attempt to load a truck or trailer when anyone is near the transport unit. Truck drivers shall not remain in the cab unless this is a necessary part of the process and the design and structure of the truck cab and associated guards provide adequate protection.
t. Be certain that no worker is located on the blind side of the loading point or area.
u. Never allow a landing worker to trim a log which is suspended by the loader. Place the log on the ground in a safe, clear area.
v. Never allow workers to stand near or under the loader while in operation.

2. HYDRAULIC SLASHER SAWS
Slasher saws are now widely used by logging operations to mechanically saw logs into varying product lengths. These units are usually hydraulically powered from the knuckleboom loader and may use either a circular disc saw or chainsaw for the cutting action. The use of slasher units reduces the risks faced by landing area workers of using chainsaws, being struck by rolling logs or moving equipment, walking in adverse ground conditions, and working in product debris.

The guidelines pertaining to slasher saws are applicable to both the circular disc and chainsaw units.

a. Follow the manufacturer's recommended guidelines for operation, maintenance, and safety.
b. Routinely inspect the unit for proper operation.
c. Repair or replace any damaged part before use.
d. Wear proper personal protective equipment during operation and when performing maintenance.
e. Deenergize (Zero Energy State) slasher saws and use extreme caution when coupling and uncoupling hydraulic lines connected to the hydraulic knuckleboom loader. Wear hand and eye protection.
f. Perform maintenance and repair only when the unit and power sources are completely disengaged.
g. Use a tool or stick to turn the chain or rotate the cutting disc when performing maintenance and repair. Protect hands and fingers from injury by wearing gloves.
h. All ground workers and mobile equipment should maintain a safe distance from the slasher.
i. Locate and maintain the slasher in as level position as possible.
j. Locate sawed logs away from the slasher to avoid the unit being struck in the event a log unexpectedly rolls off the pile.
k. Routinely clean around the unit only when the power source and the slasher are disengaged.

3. RUBBER TIRED LOADERS

a. Follow general prestart and starting guidelines for machines as pertaining to rubber tired loaders.
b. Have a large enough landing area to accommodate full movement of the loader with logs. Maintain safe distances from other ground workers and equipment units.
c. Keep the landing clear of debris.
d. Do not allow any workers within the loading area.
e. Know where your fellow workers are located.
f. Never attempt to overload the machine.
g. Carry the load at a safe height when moving.
h. Keep the landing and loading area as level as possible.
i. Be cautious of rolling logs when removing logs from the log pile.
j. Always use the hold down clamp, if available on the forks, when moving under a load.
k. Always look behind when backing.
l. Back up alarms should be used. They should not be altered or disengaged and should be in proper working condition.
m. Never allow any worker to trim a log while suspended by a loader. Place the log on the ground in a safe, clear area.
n. Be cautious of blind spots around the loader where the operator's visibility is limited.
o. Do not attempt to load a truck or trailer when anyone is near the transport unit. Truck drivers shall not remain in the cab unless this is a necessary part of the process and the design and structure of the truck cab and associated guards provide adequate protection.

©2005 National Timber Harvesting and Transportation Safety Foundation