Operator Safety Series:
Front End Loader

Course Overview and Content  
This 2 or 3 day course provides fundamentals of safety, equipment characteristics, operation, and maintenance that apply to the Front End Loader. Each student will receive a combination of classroom/ theory and practical/hands-on.

Note: Students will have their own loader; 1:1 Ratio (Student/Equipment). This will ensure adequate practical skill development.

Classroom Activities

• Equipment Design & Function
• Electrical System
• Hydraulic System
• Pre-Start Inspections
• Equipment Warning Devices
• Controls Review
• Bucket Operation
• Loading, Stockpiling, Ramping, Digging and Bulldozing Techniques
• Power-Train
• Stability and Centre of Gravity
• Work Area Clean-up
• Loader Accessories (i.e. plows)

Hands-On Activities

• Pre-Start Inspection
• Front End Loader Controls Review
• Post Operation Procedures
• Maneuvering Around Obstacles
• Bucket Operation
• Loading, Stockpiling and Ramping techniques
• Loading Trucks
• Loading/Stockpiling Salt (i.e. winter maintenance vehicles)

Learning Objectives
This course will help operators make better, more informed decisions in every aspect of front end loader operation. The results of this learning process are improved:

• Knowledge and Conscientious Attitude
• Maintenance Habits
• Safety Awareness
• Productivity

Evaluation: Theory exam (multiple choice); oral exam (by instructor) and practical exam (on equipment)