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Department of Natural Resources - Diesel Equipment in Underground Coal Mines - Duties of equipment operator.


Published: 2011-11-03

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(A) Pre-operational examination. Prior to using a piece of diesel-powered equipment during a shift, an equipment operator shall conduct a pre-operational examination as follows:

(1) Check the exhaust emissions control and conditioning system components to determine that the components are in place and not damaged or leaking;

(2) Assure that the equipment is clean and free of accumulations of combustibles;

(3) Assure that the machine is loaded safely;

(4) Check for external physical damage;

(5) Check for loose or missing connections;

(6) Check engine oil level;

(7) Check transmission oil level;

(8) Check other fluid levels, if applicable;

(9) Check for hydraulic, coolant and oil leaks;

(10) Check fan, water pump and other belts;

(11) Check the fan for damage;

(12) Check guards;

(13) Check the fuel level;

(14) Check for fuel leaks; and

(15) Comply with record keeping requirements pursuant to rule 1501:10-2-17 of the Administrative Code.

(B) Operational examination. After the engine is started and has reached normal operating temperature, the equipment operator shall conduct an examination as follows:

(1) Check all onboard engine performance and maintenance diagnostics system gauges for proper operation and in-range readings. The equipment operator shall immediately shut down the engine and notify mine management if the onboard readings indicate any of the following:

(a) Intake restriction at full engine speed is greater than the manufacturer's recommendation;

(b) Exhaust restriction at full engine speed is greater than the manufacturer's recommendation;

(c) Coolant temperature is at or near two hundred twelve degrees Fahrenheit;

(d) Low engine oil pressure; or

(e) High engine oil temperature.

(2) Check safety features, including, but not limited to, the throttle, brakes, steering, lights and horn; and

(3) Comply with record keeping requirements of rule 1501:10-2-17 of the Administrative Code.