Summary: Skid loaders are useful and versatile machines in the hands of appropriate operators. To utilize them to their utmost, we must understand there is inherent risk in the operation of the machine. This class will talk over some of the basics of skid loader operation including why there should be no passengers, proper transport, safety features, and blind spots.

Intended Audience: This course is intended for workers in forestry and logging, including fallers, first-line supervisors/managers of forestry workers, logging equipment operators, sawing machine setters, operators and tenders, and truck drivers.

Objectives: At the conclusion of the training, participants will be able to…

1. Discuss statistics regarding skid loader accidents (injuries & fatalities)
2. Recognize the need for operators to understand the manual
3. Discuss maintenance, upkeep, and repair
4. Discuss the need for proper securement when transporting
5. Review various warning labels
6. Discuss crush and pinch points
7. Describe proper methods of working on the machine with the boom up
8. Review various points of operator safety (guarding, safety features, entry and exit)
9. Discuss why riders should not be allowed and why the machines must have age-appropriate operators
10. Discuss visibility and blind spots

This material was produced under grant #SH-000099-SH3 from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor. It does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.