Tractors - Attachments and PTO

• Before using any attachments or implements, always read, understand and follow the manufacturer's safety manual.
• Only use equipment that is in good repair. Make sure that all guards or shields are in place and operational. Guards around the power take-off shafts, gear box and other rotating/spinning equipment are very important.
• Check that all hydraulic lines are in good condition, securely connected and leak-free.
• Add front counterweights to tractors with rear-mounted attachments for improved steering control and stability.

• Use correct brackets and recommended sizes and types of bolts for mounting equipment.
• Use jacks, hoists or blocks to position equipment.
• Avoid crushing and entanglement points. Do not stand between a tractor and an implement.

• Ensure that safety locks and catches are fastened.
• Attempt to line up the hitch holes from the tractor seat, then shut off the engine before dismounting to attach the hitch.

• Do not crawl under anything supported only by a hydraulic lift. Always use blocks, jack stands, or other suitable and stable supports.
• Make sure all guards are in place (master and integral shields). Damaged guards and shields should be repaired or replaced immediately.

The power take-off is extremely dangerous. The PTO spins quickly enough to trap a person and can easily catch loose clothing or long hair.

When attaching or detaching PTO-driven equipment:

• As mentioned above, before using any attachments or implements, always read, understand and follow the manufacturer's safety manual.
• Only use equipment that is in good repair. Make sure that all guards or shields are in place and operational.
• Guards around the power take-off shafts, gear box and other rotating/spinning equipment are very important.
• Lower hydraulics.
• Shut off the tractor engine.
• Apply tractor parking brake.
• Hitch tractor to implement.
• Ensure that universal joints are in the correct phase when connecting the shaft.
• Do not wear loose clothing. Tie back long hair. Do not wear shoe laces dangling.
• Stand away from moving or rotating equipment. Where possible, operate from the tractor seat, and have bystanders be at least 6 metres (20 feet) away.
• Do not remove shields from the PTO shaft.
• Make sure that the PTO spinner/integral shields rotate freely.
• Use the correct size drive for the machine being powered.
• Match the correct PTO speed for the machine being used.
• Do not step over a rotating shaft. Even PTO shafts with guards are dangerous. Walk around the equipment.
• Know how to stop the tractor, engine and attachment quickly in case of emergency.
• Follow shutdown procedures and wait for all moving parts to stop before getting off the tractor or approaching the attachment.
• Disconnect PTO when not in use.