SANDBOX MACHINE HIRE — 🛠 Beginner Tips: BOBCAT S70
Quick Safety & Operating Checklist
PRE-START — Do a walk-around: tyres, wheels, hydraulic lines, hoses, fittings, coupler. Check fluids: engine oil, hydraulic oil, coolant, fuel. Inspect ROPS/FOPS, seatbelt, safety bar, decals. Ensure attachments are properly secured and locked.
PRE-START — Don’t Operate with visible leaks, loose parts, cracked ROPS, or active warning lights.
STARTING & CONTROLS — Do Mount using 3-point contact. Fasten seat belt; lower safety bar. Follow the manufacturer's start sequence; warm engine/hydraulics at idle. Practice controls in an open area: forward/reverse, skid turns, lift/tilt. Keep hands/feet inside the cab.
STARTING & CONTROLS — Don’t operate with safety bar up or seat belt off. Don’t rapidly cycle controls until hydraulics are warm. Don’t drive with the loader raised.
SAFE OPERATION — Do know rated operating capacity; never exceed it. Carry loads low and tilted back. Avoid steep slopes, soft edges, and trench sides. Use a correct, inspected attachment for the task. Keep bystanders clear; use a spotter in tight areas.
SAFE OPERATION — Don’t lift people on buckets/pallet forks (unless certified). Don’t turn on slopes with raised load. Don’t make abrupt maneuvers with heavy loads. Don’t work at night without lights.
ATTACHMENTS — Do Match attachment to machine/task; check coupler pins and locks. Follow the attachment manufacturer's maintenance guides.
ATTACHMENTS — Don’t improvise or modify attachments or pins. Don’t use damaged/worn components.
SHUTDOWN & DAILY CARE — Do Park level, lower attachment, idle briefly, shut off, remove key. Clean debris from intakes/radiator; grease fittings per schedule. Log daily checks and defects.
SHUTDOWN & DAILY CARE — Don’t leave running unattended. Don’t skip scheduled fluids, filters, and greasing.
TRANSPORT & STORAGE — Do Secure machine/attachments for transport; immobilise controls.
TRANSPORT & STORAGE — Don’t exceed trailer/haulier capacity. Don’t store near flammables or with fuel leaks.
EMERGENCY & TROUBLESHOOTING — Do stop and shut down for smoke, strange noises, or warning lights. Keep a fire extinguisher accessible; know the emergency stop.
EMERGENCY & TROUBLESHOOTING — Don’t attempt major repairs without a qualified tech. Don’t operate if steering/brakes/hydraulics are compromised.
FINAL REMINDERS Wear PPE: hard hat, safety glasses, hi-vis, gloves, steel-toe boots. Give every new operator a short on-site orientation. Keep operator manual & service records available.
🌟 Extra Beginner Tips
Practice in an open area before working in tight-access spaces.
Keep communication clear if working with others — hand signals or radios help.
Respect the machine: even at S70 Bobcat, it’s powerful enough to cause serious damage if misused.
If you are UNSURE about anything or NEED HELP, call Brett on 0423-521-316 or see available info and guidance at www.sandboxmachinehire.com.au
🛠 Beginner Tips: Operating the Mini Excavator
🛠 Beginner Tips for Operating the Bobcat E17z (1.7t Excavator)
Operating a compact excavator like the Bobcat E17z is straightforward once you know the basics. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to help beginners stay safe, efficient, and confident.
✅ Do’s
Read the Operator’s Manual: Familiarise yourself with controls, safety features, and maintenance points.
Inspect Before Use: Check fuel, hydraulic fluid, tracks, and attachments before starting.
Wear PPE: Always use a hard hat, steel-toe boots, high-vis clothing, and hearing protection.
Work on Stable Ground: Position the excavator on firm, level surfaces to avoid tipping.
Use the Safety Bar & Seatbelt: Engage safety features every time you operate.
Start Slow: Practice basic movements (boom, arm, bucket, swing) before tackling bigger jobs.
Plan Your Digging Area: Mark underground services (gas, water, power) before trenching.
Use Smooth Movements: Gentle control inputs reduce wear and improve precision.
Keep the Load Low: Travel with the bucket close to the ground for stability.
Clean After Use: Remove dirt from tracks and bucket to prevent damage.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t Overload: Avoid lifting loads beyond rated capacity — stability is key.
Don’t Swing Too Fast: Sudden movements can cause accidents or damage.
Don’t Work Under Suspended Loads: Never allow people near the bucket or attachment when raised.
Don’t Ignore Surroundings: Watch for people, pets, vehicles, and structures nearby.
Don’t Dig Blind: Always check for underground utilities before breaking ground.
Don’t Leave Engine Running Unattended: Shut down if you step away.
Don’t Skip Maintenance: Neglecting daily checks leads to costly repairs.
Don’t Use on Unsafe Slopes: Avoid steep or unstable terrain that risks tipping.
Don’t Force Controls: If something feels stuck, stop and investigate — forcing can damage hydraulics.
Don’t Forget Transport Rules: Secure the excavator properly when towing or moving between sites.
Don’t Extend or Retract Tracks Unless Excavator is Lifted Off the Ground and Positioned on Firm, Level Surface – Always raise the machine slightly using the blade and boom before adjusting track width and ensure the ground beneath is stable to prevent tipping or damage.
Don’t Work on Slopes Greater Than 14° – Operating beyond this angle compromises stability and increases rollover risk.
🌟 Extra Beginner Tips
Practice in an open area before working in tight-access spaces.
Use the zero-tail swing advantage of the E17z — great for confined areas, but still check clearance.
Keep communication clear if working with others — hand signals or radios help.
Respect the machine: even at 1.7t, it’s powerful enough to cause serious damage if misused.
If unsure, contact Sandbox Machine Hire on 0423-521-316 or check out the videos at
www.sandboxmachinehire.com.au