Skid-Steer Loader Operator Safety Training
Ensuring Competent and Safe Operation
Course Overview
Skid-steer loaders are powerful and versatile machines found on countless job sites nationwide and across the Rio Grande Valley. However, their unique design presents serious hazards if not operated by a trained and competent individual. While not covered under the specific forklift standard, employers are mandated by OSHA's General Duty Clause (Section 5(a)(1)) to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, which includes ensuring proper training for equipment operators.
This course is designed to equip operators with the essential knowledge and practical skills to operate a skid-steer loader safely and effectively. We focus on hazard recognition, accident prevention, and hands-on evaluation to protect your operators, those around them, and your equipment.
Who Should Attend?
This training is essential for any person who operates or will be required to operate a skid-steer loader, from new hires to experienced operators needing refresher training.
Prerequisite: All participants must be at least 18 years of age.
Comprehensive Curriculum & Learning Objectives
Our program covers all critical aspects of skid-steer safety to ensure a thorough understanding of the equipment and its hazards.
Preparing for Safe Operation: Learn to conduct thorough pre-operation inspections and assess the worksite for potential hazards.
Preventing Crushing & Struck-By Accidents: Understand the dangers of moving parts, especially lift arms and attachments. Learn about blind spots, swing radius, and how to maintain a safe distance from personnel.
Rollover Prevention: A deep dive into the primary causes of rollovers—including operating on uneven terrain, improper loading, excessive speed, and sharp turns—and how to maintain machine stability at all times.
Operational & Environmental Hazards: Cover other critical risks such as hydraulic system safety, safe entry and exit procedures, and awareness of site-specific environmental conditions.
Spotter & Hand Signal Competency: Training on standard hand signals to ensure clear and safe communication between the operator and spotters.
Hands-On Performance Evaluation
Classroom learning is only part of the equation. The course culminates in a hands-on performance evaluation for each student. This practical test requires the operator to demonstrate their operational skills, their ability to recognize and respond to hazards, and their knowledge of proper hand signals.
Please Note: To ensure the training is as relevant as possible, clients are requested to provide the skid-steer loader that their employees will be operating for the practical evaluation portion of the class. This allows for site-specific familiarization and a more accurate assessment of competency. Rental options can be discussed if needed.
Certification & Course Details
Certification: Upon successful completion of the written test and practical evaluation, operators receive a certificate of completion.
Certification Validity: 3 years.
Course Length: 4-6 Hours (duration depends on class size and the number of practical evaluations).
Instructor-to-Student Ratio: 1:15.
Pricing: Course cost is dependent on the final class size.
Location: Nationwide
Invest in safety and prevent accidents. Contact us today to schedule your Skid-Steer Loader Operator Training.