Genuine Twin Locking Coupler Test
If you are in any doubt about how to conduct this test safely, or how to safely perform attachment changeovers on a machine with a quick coupler you should consult a suitable health and safety professional.
After conducting the test, regardless of the result, you should make sure that the attachment is securely locked in place, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The Test
- In a controlled and safe environment, ensure that there is an exclusion zone around the machine. Check that no personnel are in the test area before carrying out the test.
- Attach the bucket/attachment to the coupler/hitch as per the manufacturer’s operating instructions.
- When the attachment is clamped ‘on’, position the machine’s arm at full stretch with the bucket fully curled in (as if waiting with a full bucket to load a truck). Then switch the coupler operation switch to the release position (simulating a loss of engagement forces/hydraulic failure). The buzzer should now sound.
- Fully curl the coupler away from the cab.
What to look out for…
A. Bucket/attachment swings on one pin.
DOES NOT COMPLY with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and most major contractor’s quick coupler policies.
B. Bucket/attachment is released from the coupler.
DOES NOT COMPLY with EN474-1/-4/-5:2006+A1:2009, the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and most major contractor’s quick coupler policies.
C. Bucket/attachment is held securely on both the front and rear pins.
COMPLIES WITH EN474-1/-4/-5:2006+A1:2009 and Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and most major contractor’s quick coupler policies.
View the test instructions video.
What to do next…
So, just what does it mean to coupler users who operate a coupler that does not comply with these standards?
Put simply, it means that if an accident occurs with a quick coupler an investigation will be carried out to determine whether or not the coupler installed to your machine conforms to the above standards, if it does NOT then the responsibility of this and all resulting actions will unfortunately be yours.
If you would like to discuss what to do next or would like any further information on this subject, please contact us.
If you would more information on a genuine twin locking coupler that meets all current safety standards and all major contractor’s quick coupler policies please view the Miller PowerLatch page of this website.