Service Truck Operation And Safety Procedures Training

Objectives:
• Understand the scope and purpose of service truck operations in various industries.
• Identify relevant South African legislation, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the National Road Traffic Act.
• Explain the role of SAQA and the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) in training standards.
• Recognize the importance of safety culture and personal responsibility in the workplace.

Topics:
• Overview of service truck types and applications.
• Key legal requirements for operators (driver licensing, vehicle fitness, load management).
• Introduction to the Unit Standard 116085 outcomes.
• Roles and responsibilities of operators, employers, and safety officers.
• Basic safety principles: hazard identification, risk assessment, and control measures.

Objectives:
• Conduct thorough pre-start inspections according to manufacturer and company checklists.
• Identify and report defects in service truck systems (brakes, tires, lights, hydraulics).
• Understand the functions of vehicle components relevant to service operations.
• Demonstrate correct starting and shutdown procedures.

Topics:
• Daily inspection routines: engine, transmission, steering, suspension.
• Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, hydraulic fluid, fuel).
• Tire condition and pressure assessment.
• Lighting, reflectors, and warning devices.
• Hydraulic system checks for cranes, winches, and lifts.
• Documentation: pre-trip inspection reports and defect reporting procedures.

Objectives:
• Apply defensive driving principles specific to heavy service vehicles.
• Perform safe reversing, turning, and parking in various environments.
• Manage vehicle stability and load dynamics during transit.
• Respond appropriately to adverse weather and road conditions.

Topics:
• Defensive driving techniques: scanning, following distance, speed management.
• Manoeuvring in confined spaces (construction sites, warehouses, urban areas).
• Effects of load distribution on vehicle handling.
• Emergency braking and collision avoidance.
• Driving on gravel, slopes, and uneven terrain.
• Use of mirrors and cameras for blind spot reduction.

Objectives:
• Select appropriate lifting and securing equipment for different types of loads.
• Apply load calculation methods to ensure within safe working limits.
• Use tie-downs, chains, and straps correctly to prevent load shift.
• Execute safe unloading procedures, including use of cranes and tail lifts.

Topics:
• Load rating and centre of gravity principles.
• Types of securing devices: chains, binders, straps, and blocks.
• Inspection of lifting gear (slings, hooks, shackles).
• Step-by-step loading and securing process.
• Unloading techniques: crane operation, winching, and ramp use.
• Documentation: load manifest and weight distribution records.

Objectives:
• Coordinate with site personnel using standard hand signals and radio protocols.
• Set up the service truck for on-site operations, including stabilizers and outriggers.
• Perform basic service tasks (e.g., fuel delivery, lubrication, component replacement) under supervision.
• Manage hazards specific to service sites (overhead power lines, underground services, pedestrian traffic).

Topics:
• Communication signals: hand signals, two-way radio etiquette, and site-specific codes.
• Positioning and stabilizing the vehicle for crane or hydraulic operations.
• Spill prevention and containment procedures.
• Working near live electrical cables and buried utilities.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements for on-site work.
• Interaction with other trades and vehicles on site.

Objectives:
• Identify potential emergencies (fire, medical, vehicle breakdown, load failure).
• Execute emergency shutdown and evacuation procedures.
• Use fire extinguishers and other emergency equipment correctly.
• Report incidents according to company and legal requirements.

Topics:
• Emergency response plan components.
• Fire classes and extinguisher types (A, B, C, D) and usage.
• First aid basics for common injuries (cuts, fractures, burns).
• Vehicle breakdown procedures: warning triangles, reflective vests, calling for assistance.
• Load failure containment and cleanup.
• Incident reporting: forms, timelines, and root cause analysis.

Objectives:
• Demonstrate competence in all key areas through a practical assessment.
• Complete a written knowledge test covering theory and regulations.
• Develop a personal action plan for continuous improvement.
• Understand the certification process and logbook requirements.

Topics:
• Practical assessment: pre-trip inspection, driving manoeuvres, load securement, on-site operations.
• Written assessment: 30 multiple-choice questions.
• Feedback session and remediation if needed.
• Logbook review and sign-off.
• Certification: issuing of statement of results and portfolio of evidence.
• Next steps: ongoing professional development and refresher training.