Guides & Toolkits

JUNE 2013 Acceptable Elevating Options Ramps – Driving ■ Limit slope to 12.5% or less (less than one foot of rise in every eight feet of length). ■ Should have curb and/or guard rail if ramp is not enclosed inside building. ■ Ramp should be kept clean, grit may be added to improve traction. ■ Ramp should be inspected prior to use. ■ Tractor has roll over protection. ■ Verify the brakes on the cleanout tractor are working prior to ascending or descending ramp. ■ Always back up the ramp and drive down the ramp. Ramps – Winching up ramp ■ Should have curb and/or guard rail if ramp not enclosed inside building. ■ Verify that the size of the winch is adequate for the expected load (tractor plus safety factor). ■ Inspect cable for any damage before use (frayed or broken wires). ■ Never ride on tractor during winching – should be guide channel on ramp for wheel. ■ Cleanout tractor should be on level landing with brakes engaged before disconnecting winch cable. Telescoping Loader Tractor ■ Loader tractor operator should be at least 16 years old and trained on safe operation of the tractor. ■ Verify the telescoping loader tractor capacity prior to picking up the cleanout tractor (remember load capacity decreases as the boom is extended). ■ Lift platform should secure the clean out tractor (railing /blocks) to protect loader operator. ■ Cleanout tractor should not be running and parking brake should be engaged while on lift platform. ■ No passengers on the lift platform while lifting the cleanout tractor. ■ Lift platform should be placed inside the barn door on second fl oor prior to starting clean out tractor. Overhead Winch System ■ Overhead barn support for winch system should be designed by a professional engineer. ■ Winch should be capable of lifting the expected load (cleanout tractor). ■ Winch cables, chains or hook are inspected before every use for wear or defaults. ■ Ensure winch is only lifting load in vertical direction (aligned, not pulling sideways). ■ Use guide rope or cable to control the load during lifting. ■ Never leave load suspended from winch unattended. ■ Keep all people away from cleanout tractor and clear of fall line while it is being lifted. 31

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