Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eRW4BVcONw (5 min)

Operator safety, part 1. Mike from Rippa USA Sales covers basic safety for anyone running a mini excavator, using the Rippa R10 and R32 as examples. He points out that a large share of his customers have never run an excavator before, so these basics matter.

SAFETY LEVER

The safety (lockout) lever controls whether the hydraulics work. With it in the locked position, you can start the machine, but moving the controls does nothing. Lower it to engage the hydraulic pump so the boom, stick and bucket respond.

A good habit is to leave the lever in the locked position any time you leave the seat. Mike's point is that you should not leave it down, even for a quick job outside the machine while you raise and lower the boom, because a bumped control can move the machine.

CLIMBING IN AND OUT

- Always keep three points of contact: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, with one limb moving at a time.

- Loose clothing can catch on controls or handles as you climb in or out. Mike notes that his shirt or belt loop snags on a control and can trip him.

- A fall from the larger machines, like the R32, onto gravel or concrete could hurt you, so take your time.

Questions? Call Rippa USA Sales at 817-382-3201 or visit RippaUSASales.com. We deliver nationwide with flat rate shipping, and you get 50% off attachments when you buy a machine from us.