Resources > Safety Tips

Safety Tips

  1. Emergency Stop System
  2. Safely Search for Hydraulic Leaks
  3. Trimmer Safety
  4. Machine Servicing & Maintenance
  5. Stringline Safety
  6. When Working on Posts
  7. Safety Goals for the Season
  8. Safety Training from the Factory
 
 
1. Emergency Stop System

Never bypass or disconnect a machine’s Emergency Stop (E-Stop) Circuit in ANY manner that will render it inoperative!

Power Curbers’ machines are equipped with an E-Stop circuit that will disable all hydraulic functions and stop the engine when any of the E-Stop buttons are activated.  Proper functioning of the E-Stop buttons is extremely critical.  Always keep these areas clear of debris or other obstructions.  Do not move or relocate the E-Stop buttons.  Before restarting the machine after the E-Stop circuit has been activated:

  1. Make sure that the circumstance that prompted the activation of the E-Stop circuit is no longer present.  Only then, reset the E-Stop button.
  2. Place ALL controls in their OFF, NEUTRAL OR STAND-BY positions.
  3. Make sure all crew members and obstructions are clear of the machine BEFORE restarting.

Reference: Section 7.0, 5700-D Operations Manual; Section 2.0, 5700-D Maintenance Manual.

Service Tip:  When having E-Stop system problems, be sure to inspect the conduit going to the E-Stop box(es) on the conveyor for dents that might have cut the wires inside.  Do not operate the curb machine if your E-Stop system is not functioning properly.

2. Safely Search for Hydraulic Leaks

Never use your hands to search for hydraulic leaks!

Use a piece of paper or cardboard.  A pinhole leak in a pressurized hydraulic hose can release toxic fluid at a speed close to the muzzle velocity of a gun.  Hydraulic oil may cause toxic effects if absorbed through the skin.  Contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes.

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3. Trimmer Safety
  • The operator must remain at the controls while the trimmer is operating.
  • Do not operate the trimmer without all guards in place.
  • Contact with the drum or auger during operation may result in severe injury or death.
  • Stand clear of the trimmer when it is operating.
  • If the trimmer head locks up during use:
    > Set the trimmer controls to OFF.
    > Stop the engine and remove the key.
    > The trimmer motor and oil lines may be hot and under pressure even with the engine off – use caution.
    > Dislodge the object with a shovel or similar tool.  Inspect for damage – repair as necessary.
    > Resume operation.

For more information, reference our manuals at https://www.powercurbers.com/resources/manuals/

For more information on jobsite safety visit the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health at https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/construction/

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4. Machine Servicing & Maintenance

We want to see all operators and crew members work in a safe environment.  In addition to following the guidelines in our machine manuals, please be aware of the following when servicing your machine.

  1. Do not assemble, clean, lubricate, or adjust the machine while the engine is running.
  2. To avoid burns, be alert for hot parts on the machine after it has been running.  Allow it to cool sufficiently first.
  3. Stop the machine before refueling.  Do not smoke, or allow smoking, open flames, or sparks within 50 ft. of the machine while refueling.

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5. Stringline Safety

Always use eye protection and gloves when setting stringline!  

Though eye protection is often overlooked by stringline crews, the risk for eye damage is real.  Safety glasses can help protect eyes from hammer ricochets when driving stakes in tough sub grade.

Periodically we hear from folks who have burned or cut their hands while pulling stringline tight.  Always wear gloves to keep this painful injury from members of your stringline crew.

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6. When Working on Posts
  1. Remove key from ignition.
  2. Support the machine with a jack stand rated no less than 5 tons.
  3. Keep in mind that hydraulic oil can be under pressure and may be hot.
  4. Do not remove hoses or counter balance valves fron the post without first supporting machine weight.

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7. Safety Goals for the Season

We want everyone who works around a 5700 series machine to remain safe each season.  Have you set safety goals with your crew?  Before you jump back into pouring, please do a refresher course with your crew on the do’s and don’ts of working around a slip form machine.

Haven’t seen your Operator’s Manual with safety pages in a while?  Click here to go to the section of our website and request a free download.

https://www.powercurbers.com/resources/manuals/

For more information on jobsite safety, visit the National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health at  https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/

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8. Safety Training from the Factory

A well trained and educated crew is a key to your curb machine’s performance, the safety of personnel, and to your business success.  Power Curbers emphasizes safety and service in all of its training and education with customers.  Here are some ideas from the factory:

  • Download maintenance, parts and operator manuals free from our website.
  • Order a safety video by e-mailing info@powercurbers.com or by calling 704-636-5871.
  • Set up onsite training by factory and/or field service experts.
  • Call our service technicians for onsite machine evaluations.
  • Help is a phone call away. Call your local Service Manager or contact our Product Support Department at the factory by calling 704-647-6141 or by e-mailing productsupport@powercurbers.com
  • Sign up for Power Curbers Academy.  They are thorough 2-day service training sessions.  They feature classroom training and hands-on workshops.  You can register on our website or by e-mailing productsupport@powercurbers.com

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