OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT
A HAULER OPERATOR’S GUIDE
A
n efficient articulated hauler operator combines technical expertise, safety and situational awareness
with effective communication and a commitment to productivity. Scottish ADT manufacturer Rokbak explains how to master the art of safely operating an articulated hauler.
1) GET READY TO MOVE Operators must take control of the hauler and their daily work before the ignition has been switched on by making sure they know the truck. It is important to have a thorough understanding of the truck’s controls, capabilities and limitations. This includes knowing how to operate it efficiently and safely in various conditions, such as on gradients, rough terrain or in adverse weather.
2) CHECK THINGS OVER At the start of the working day, prestart checks are essential. A diligent operator will conduct routine truck inspections to make sure the truck is ready for work. Check for pre-existing damage including leaks and loose parts. In addition, check tyre conditions, fluid and battery levels, that lights and beacons are fully operational and that there is full visibility through the windows.
3) KNOW THE LIMITS Before starting work, operators must learn worksite boundaries such as speed, ground bearing weight limits, travel direction, passing areas, width
and height restrictions and no-go areas. Know the hauler’s capacity and be aware of the truck’s working limits with regard to payload.
4) SAFE OPERATION Follow all site operating procedures when driving the truck. Keep under speed and under control on gradients and check grade guides for safe and controlled descent speed. Correctly use differential locks – employ them when operating on soft or slippery ground conditions to maintain traction and control.
5) CORRECT USAGE Rokbak’s RA30 and RA40 articulated haulers have fully enclosed multi- disc brakes on all six wheels plus a retarder to deliver safe, consistent performance. Understanding the correct use of the retarder can prolong the life of the service brakes and reduce maintenance intervals for lower total cost of ownership (TCO).
6) STAY ALERT A good ADT operator stays alert to their surroundings, including other workers, vehicles and obstacles on site. They anticipate potential hazards and adapt their driving accordingly to maintain safety for themselves and others.
7) KEEP AN EYE ON TARGETS Operating an articulated hauler requires diligence to ensure proper loading, unloading and manoeuvring
Knowing the capabilities and limits of your hauler puts you in control
One ADT manufacturer explains how to become a trusted operator
of materials. While an integrated payload system can account for the number of loads moved, manually recording progress in relation to a target keeps productivity proceeding on schedule.
8) DO NOT IGNORE FAULT CODES Critical information is delivered whenever system fault codes are triggered. If a truck does develop a fault, the operator will receive a warning symbol on the dashboard. Faults should be reported when they occur as continuing to operate could exacerbate the issue. Following the truck’s advice means increasing uptime by avoiding potential disruptions, but necessitates effective communication with site supervisors, co-workers and other equipment operators to ensure ongoing smooth operations.
9) AND AT THE END OF SHIFT... Follow the correct shutdown procedure. Allowing the truck to idle for a brief period at the end of a workday enables the coolant to circulate through the engine. This helps to gradually lower the temperature, preventing potential damage from frequent ‘hot shutdowns’ over time.
For more information visit:
www.rokbak.com
www.engineerlive.com 25
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