By Benuel Esh

• Always keep windows as clean as possible.

• Keep the engine compartment clean, especially in woods equipment. Sticks and leaves can accumulate around the exhaust and could start a fire.

• Always place the loader, forks, or blade on the ground when parking and apply the park brake.

• Always maintain three-point contact when exiting the cab.

I have always enjoyed watching skilled equipment operators. The operator is totally focused on what he is doing, asking the machine to perform to its maximum ability while making it look easy. It is always nice if the operator makes eye contact with personnel on the ground. At least for me personally, I now know that the operator knows that I am there.

Most businesses have trucks bringing in supplies or hauling the product. I have seen truck drivers place themselves in harm’s way a lot of times. A lot of times, the driver may not be aware of the nature of the operation.

Speaking of trucks… Please allow me to touch on a few things. It always kind of bothers me a little bit to see a truck waiting to get loaded or unloaded… A lot of times it cannot be helped. The driver most likely wants to go home as soon as possible and who knows, maybe he was stuck in traffic before he or she even got there.

Most drivers appreciate skilled and respectful equipment operators. For a lot of them, the truck is what they see. Every time they observe a particular ding or scratch, it may result in a negative opinion of that particular business or operator.

A good operator knows and respects the machine’s limitations and will operate the machine the way it was intended to be run.

Focus on the task at hand, never assume, and look again.

Sincerely, Benuel F. Esh, Fox Run Timbers, Airville, PA. (717) 818-7834