Specifications

300 SERIES MAN HOLE DIGGER
FORM GOM12070702, VERSION 1.2
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hole digging process, the operator will be required to
lift the Hole Digger and auger/auger extension with
numerous repetition, as demanded by the specific job
application. Utilizing proper lifting techniques will
minimize fatigue and back-related injuries while
increasing overall productivity rates.
ANATOMY
The human body is supported by the spinal column.
The spinal column consists of thirty separate bones
called
vertebrae, all linked and supported by a series
of tiny muscles. Small pads called discs are situated
between each vertebrae and act like shock absorbers
to cushion the pressure created from external forces.
The spinal column is wrapped by a system of nerves
and has three natural curves:
Cervical: from the base of the neck to the brain.
Thoracic: situated from the middle to the lower back.
Lumbar: located from the lower back to the buttocks
area.
T
hese three curves need to be kept in natural
alignment in order to prevent discomfort.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
Most occupational physicians agree on several
“universal” preventative measures that an operator
should follow to help lower the risk of back-related
injuries:
1) Maintain proper body weight.
2) Maintain good posture while walking or sitting.
3) Be conscious of how you twist and bend your body
while
digging. Twisting and bending the wrong way can
exert too much pressure on one side of your vertebrae.
4) Always use proper lifting techniques as described
below.
5) Develop a consistent exercise routine.
6) Eliminate or reduce your use of tobacco. Smoking
reduces the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the discs
that cushion the vertebrae.
PROPER LIFTING PROCEDURES
The
following are guidelines for properly lifting the Hole
digger and auger/auger extension from the hole and
are not intended to be all inclusive.Plan your path and
make sure there are no obstructions or tripping
hazards. Consider how you will set the load. The spinal
column is a very sensitive mechanism. At any given
time, improper lifting procedures can cause damage
that can lead to injury.
1) Position your feet at a comfortable distance
(shoulder width) to help provide the necessary
balance.
2)
Tighten your stomach muscles by pulling in your
stomach. Keep your back as straight as possible to
keep the spine, back muscles and ligaments in correct
alignment.
3) Remember to bend at the hips and knees as much
as possible.
4) Start lifting the Hole Digger with a thrust of your feet
while lifting as much as possible with your leg muscles.
Use
smooth movements.
5) Once you lift the Hole Digger, keep it close as
possible to the body. Avoid turning at the waist. To turn,
pivot your entire body.
6) Keep your shoulders, hips and feet pointed in the
same direction.
7) Keep your footing firm and make sure that your
intended path is clear before attempting to carry the
Hole Digger.
MINIMIZING KICKBACK FROM AN OPERATIONAL
ST
ANDPOINT.
Application: All 300 Series models.
Both operators should keep the left side handle as
close to their body (left hip and leg areas) as possible
to minimize machine "kickback" when a buried
obstruction is encountered by the auger. Assume
operating positions that allow each to exercise reactive
"body english" against the torque sensation created by
the digging process. Keep upper arms as close to the
upper body as possible to maximize mechanical
leverage. Operators should position their backs as
vertical as possible by bending the legs as required