Skid Steer Loader Operation And Safety Training

Objectives:
• Describe the purpose and applications of skid steer loaders
• Identify key components and controls of a skid steer loader
• Explain basic safety principles and PPE requirements
• Understand relevant legislation and unit standard outcomes

Topics:
• Overview of skid steer loader types and uses
• Main components: engine, hydraulic system, tires/tracks, attachment plate
• Operator controls: joysticks, pedals, switches, gauges
• Safety regulations: OHS Act, construction regulations, site safety
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) and pre-start checks

Objectives:
• Perform daily pre-start inspections according to manufacturer guidelines
• Identify fluid levels and top-up procedures
• Conduct visual checks for leaks, damage, and tyre/track condition
• Complete operator logbook and report defects

Topics:
• Pre-start inspection checklist
• Engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, fuel levels
• Battery, belts, filters, and warning lights
• Tyre pressure and tread wear; track tension adjustment
• Daily logbook entries and defect reporting procedures

Objectives:
• Demonstrate correct start-up and shutdown procedures
• Operate joystick controls for forward, reverse, and turning
• Control bucket lift and tilt functions
• Practice smooth acceleration, deceleration, and stopping

Topics:
• Start-up sequence: seatbelt, parking brake, engine start
• ISO and H-pattern control layouts
• Forward, reverse, and pivot turns
• Lift arm and bucket control (raise, lower, dump, curl)
• Stopping distance and reaction time

Objectives:
• Drive in straight lines and perform figure-8 patterns
• Execute precise bucket positioning at ground level
• Load and dump material into a stockpile
• Maintain safe operating speed and control

Topics:
• Straight-line driving and steering coordination
• Figure-8 and serpentine maneuvers
• Bucket leveling and ground engagement
• Loading loose material and dumping into piles
• Speed control and avoiding sudden movements

Objectives:
• Assess slope gradient and stability limits
• Drive up, down, and across slopes safely
• Use bucket to stabilize on inclines
• Avoid rollover hazards and understand load shift

Topics:
• Centre of gravity and stability triangle
• Climbing and descending slopes: bucket position
• Traversing slopes: low center of gravity
• Load shift effects on stability
• Emergency procedures for tip-ups

Objectives:
• Approach stockpiles and trucks at correct angles
• Fill bucket efficiently with minimal spillage
• Dump into trucks and hoppers accurately
• Manage cycle times for productivity

Topics:
• Stockpile management: V-notch and ramp approaches
• Bucket penetration and curl timing
• Truck loading: side and rear dump positioning
• Hopper dumping: height and placement
• Cycle time optimization

Objectives:
• Attach and detach buckets, augers, and trenchers
• Perform trenching operations with correct depth control
• Excavate and backfill using skid steer
• Understand attachment hydraulic flow requirements

Topics:
• Quick coupler operation and safety
• Attachment types: trenching bucket, auger, grapple
• Trenching technique: grade control and spoil placement
• Backfilling and compaction basics
• Hydraulic flow and pressure settings

Objectives:
• Use grapple attachments for logs, debris, and bulky items
• Transport materials with load security
• Stack and unstack pallets and pipes
• Apply safe lifting principles and load limits

Topics:
• Grapple types: root, scrap, log grapple
• Picking and carrying odd-shaped loads
• Pallet forks: fork spacing and tilt
• Load stability: center of gravity and securement
• Rated operating capacity (ROC) and load charts

Objectives:
• Identify common site hazards: overhead lines, edge protection, pedestrians
• Apply traffic management and signalling procedures
• Conduct risk assessments for specific tasks
• Respond to emergency situations: fire, rollover, entrapment

Topics:
• Overhead power line safety (minimum distances)
• Excavation edge protection and trench safety
• Pedestrian exclusion zones and spotters
• Hand signals and two-way radio communication
• Emergency shutdown and evacuation procedures

Objectives:
• Operate in confined areas with zero tail swing awareness
• Perform 180-degree turns in narrow corridors
• Maneuver around obstacles and through gateways
• Use skid steer for grading and fine finishing

Topics:
• Zero tail swing vs conventional machines
• Tight turning techniques: counter-rotation
• Obstacle course navigation
• Fine grading with bucket float and tilt
• Backfilling around structures

Objectives:
• Inspect trailer and ramps for safe loading
• Load and secure skid steer onto flatbed trailer
• Apply tie-down procedures (chains, binders, straps)
• Understand transport regulations and weight distribution

Topics:
• Trailer capacity and ramp angle
• Loading uphill/downhill techniques
• Tie-down points and rated capacity
• Chain and binder application (4-point method)
• Overwidth/overheight permits and signage

Objectives:
• Perform end-of-shift inspections and cleaning
• Service air filters, grease fittings, and fluid changes
• Diagnose common faults and minor repairs
• Complete maintenance logbooks and report major issues

Topics:
• End-of-shift checklist: clean, inspect, park
• Greasing schedule and zerk fittings
• Air filter cleaning/replacement
• Hydraulic hose inspection for wear
• Battery maintenance and jump-start procedures

Objectives:
• Demonstrate all skills in a simulated worksite scenario
• Perform pre-start, operation, and shutdown safely
• Execute loading, excavation, and material handling tasks
• Complete written knowledge test and practical evaluation

Topics:
• Simulated worksite: multiple tasks, hazards, and attachments
• Pre-start inspection and defect reporting
• Loading and dumping cycle with accuracy
• Emergency response scenario
• Final assessment: practical and theory