Abstract: A panel laying machine for use as a "power assist" in installing access flooring. The machine includes a self-propelled chassis, a mast extending upwardly from the chassis and a jib turnably mounted on the mast. A panel gripper head is suspended from the mast by a cable coupled to a winch on the jib and the gripper head includes controls manually operable by an operator to raise and lower the panel, release the panel from the gripper head and move the chassis. A safety interlock is provided so that the panel cannot be released by the gripper head while the suspension cable is supporting a load above a predetermined limit.