What must be done when the driver leaves the vehicle during operations?

When a driver leaves the vehicle during operations, it is critical to make sure that the boom is in its cradle. This action is essential for safety, as it helps to prevent any unintended movement or accidents while the driver is away from the vehicle. Having the boom secured in its cradle minimizes the risk of it inadvertently swinging or collapsing, which could pose a hazard not only to the vehicle but also to nearby personnel or equipment.

While securing the vehicle by locking it, turning off the ignition, or activating hazard lights are important vehicle safety practices, they do not directly address the need to ensure that the equipment is stable and poses no risk of movement. Therefore, the priority in this scenario is to ensure the boom is safely stowed in its cradle before leaving the vehicle. This practice aligns with operational safety protocols and equipment handling standards critical in de-icing operations.