Tractors – Using Equipment with a Power Take-Off (PTO)

What precautions should you take when using equipment with a Power Take-Off (PTO)?

When using any power take-off driven equipment (attachments or implements):

context Always read, understand and follow the manufacturer's safety manual.
context Only use equipment that is in good repair. Equipment should be inspected frequently for signs of wear and damage.
context Make sure that all guards or shields are in place and operational. Guards around the power take-off shafts, gearbox and other rotating or spinning equipment are very important. Damaged guards and shields should be repaired or replaced immediately. Do not remove shields from the power take-off shaft.
context Check that all hydraulic lines are in good condition, securely connected, and leak-free.
context Add front counterweights to tractors with rear-mounted attachments for improved steering control and stability.
context Use correct brackets and recommended sizes and types of bolts for mounting equipment.
context The breaking strength of safety chains, hooks, and bolts must be equal to the total actual weight of the towed implement and any load it is carrying.
context Use the correct size drive for the machine being powered.
context Remember that potential energy (electrical, gravitational, hydraulic, mechanical) can be stored in elevated and powered equipment. Use hazardous energy controls when required.
context Do not crawl under anything supported only by a hydraulic lift. Always use blocks, jack stands, hoists, or other suitable and stable supports.
context Avoid crushing and entanglement points.
context Do not stand between a tractor and an attachment or implement.
context The power take-off is extremely dangerous. The power take-off spins quickly enough to trap a person and can easily catch loose clothing, long hair, jewellery, shoelaces, and hood strings. Loose and dangling items should be avoided, securely tied back, or covered.
context Power take-off shafts with guards are also dangerous. It is safer to walk around the equipment than to step over the rotating shaft.
context 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.
context Do not allow anyone to ride on or in the equipment unless it is designed to transport passengers safely.
context Know how to stop the tractor, engine, and equipment quickly in case of an emergency.

What steps should be followed when attaching or detaching Power Take-Off (PTO) driven equipment?

When attaching or detaching power take-off driven equipment:

context Perform a pre-use inspection and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.
context Position the equipment.
context Attempt to line up the hitch holes from the tractor seat.
context Lower hydraulics.
context Apply the tractor parking brake.
context Shut off the tractor engine before dismounting to attach the hitch.
context Hitch the tractor to the equipment.
context Make sure that universal joints are in the correct phase when connecting the shaft.
context Make sure that safety chains, locks, and catches are fastened.
context Make sure that the power take-off spinner or integral shields rotate freely.
context Match the correct power take-off speed for the equipment being used.
context Once you have finished using the equipment, follow the shutdown procedures, apply the tractor parking brake, and wait for all moving parts to stop before getting off the tractor or approaching the equipment and power take-off.
context Disconnect the power take-off when not in use.