Before putting the transmission into gear, which safety feature must be engaged?

Engaging the parking brake before putting the transmission into gear is a critical safety procedure when operating heavy machinery like a telehandler. The parking brake ensures that the telehandler does not roll or move unexpectedly, which could lead to serious accidents or injuries. This safety feature keeps the machine securely in place, allowing the operator to focus on controlling the equipment without the risk of it shifting or rolling away.

The necessity of engaging the parking brake is tied to maintaining overall control of the telehandler. Operational protocols dictate that the machine should be stationary and secure before changing the transmission's gear settings. This practice minimizes the likelihood of accidents associated with sudden movement and supports a safe working environment.

Other safety features, while important in their own right, serve different purposes. For instance, the seat belt protects the operator during operation but does not prevent the machine from moving. The emergency shut-off is designed to disable the machine in cases of emergency, while the steering lock helps secure the steering system but is not directly related to the machine's readiness for gear changes.