Rented mini-excavators may look like toys, but they can cause injury or death if operated improperly. Please review the safety and usage tips below. Your local, ARA-affiliated rental store professional can provide you with complete instructions. You sometimes also can view how-to video instructions at a rental store for information on using the equipment safely and effectively.

·  Read all manufacturer warnings and instructions prior to using a rented mini-excavator.

·  Properly secure rented mini-excavator when you transport it.

·  Follow safe practices when you hook up and tow a rented mini-excavator.

·  Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a hardhat, safety glasses and ear protection.

·  Use mini-excavator only in areas that offer adequate ventilation.

·  Keep onlookers away from the jobsite while operating the rented mini-excavator.

·  Do not allow anyone to ride in rented mini-excavator other than the operator.

·  Do not lift anyone using the bucket or boom of the rented mini-excavator.

·  Mark the areas where you will dig.

·  Before you dig, call 811 — the national “Call Before You Dig” phone number — to notify utility companies of your digging plans, so that they can send out a locator to mark underground lines for free. You must wait a few days after calling before digging. The exact time requirements for waiting vary by state.

·  Rent the appropriate mini-excavator from your local ARA-affiliated rental store. See What Do You Need in a Mini-Excavator Rental? for a description of possible features available on rented mini-excavators.

·  Check and, if needed, service fluid levels in rented mini-excavator.

·  Select an attachment — approved by the manufacturer of the rented mini-excavator — that suits your intended application. Make sure to secure it to the mini-excavator properly.

·  Perform a worksite inspection, taking note of all overhead electrical lines or obstructions, as well as drop-offs and steep slopes. Maintain a minimum clearance of at least 10 feet from overhead electrical lines.

·  Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for starting and shutting off the rented mini-excavator.

·  Do not exceed the lift capacity of the rented mini-excavator.

·  Never lift a load over anyone.

·  When moving the rented mini-excavator, keep the bucket or attachment low to the ground.

Contact your local, ARA-affiliated, rental store for information on available rental products and services to meet your mini-excavator needs. To locate the rental store nearest you, use the Rental Store Quick Locator above.