Heavy Equipment Operation: Skid Steer Safety Training Course

Operate skid steers with greater confidence while reducing the risk of rollovers, struck-by incidents, and equipment-related injuries. This comprehensive training course teaches operators how to safely inspect, operate, maintain, and transport skid steer loaders in accordance with industry best practices. Participants learn how to recognize common hazards, use protective systems correctly, perform routine inspections, and safely work around pedestrians and other equipment on busy construction sites.

Training Objectives

After completing this course, learners will be able to:

• Identify the purpose and proper use of ROPS, FOPS, seat belts, and operator restraint systems

• Maintain machine stability by managing load height, weight distribution, and center of gravity

• Recognize skid steer blind spots and implement safe spotting and communication procedures

• Perform thorough pre-shift inspections of tires, tracks, hydraulic systems, and locking mechanisms

• Safely change attachments while relieving hydraulic pressure and verifying secure connections

• Apply proper loading, tie-down, and transportation procedures for skid steer equipment

• Reduce the risk of rollovers, collisions, and struck-by incidents through safe operating practices

• Promote a culture of safety and accountability on every job site

Course Overview

Skid steer loaders are among the most versatile and productive machines found on construction sites, warehouses, landscaping projects, and industrial facilities. Their compact design and maneuverability allow operators to perform a wide variety of tasks, but these same characteristics also create unique safety risks when equipment is operated improperly or without adequate training.

This course provides practical instruction on the safe operation of skid steer loaders while emphasizing hazard recognition, operator responsibility, and preventative maintenance. Participants learn how to safely enter and exit the cab, understand the importance of Roll-Over Protective Structures (ROPS) and Falling Object Protective Structures (FOPS), and properly use restraint systems designed to protect operators during unexpected incidents.

The course explains how improper load handling, excessive travel speeds, and elevated attachments can quickly reduce machine stability and increase the risk of tip-overs. Learners discover why maintaining a low center of gravity and operating at safe speeds are essential when carrying materials across uneven terrain or working on slopes.

Special attention is given to pedestrian safety and the significant blind spots surrounding skid steer loaders. Operators learn effective communication techniques, the importance of designated spotters, and procedures for maintaining awareness of nearby workers throughout every phase of operation.

Participants also gain valuable maintenance knowledge by performing daily inspections of tires, tracks, hydraulic hoses, quick-attach systems, locking pins, and fluid levels. The course discusses hydraulic system hazards, including high-pressure fluid injection injuries, and demonstrates safe methods for identifying leaks and servicing equipment.

Finally, the program covers the safe use of common attachments—including buckets, forks, augers, trenchers, and hydraulic tools—as well as proper loading, securement, and transportation practices that comply with applicable Department of Transportation (DOT) and cargo securement requirements.

Whether operating a skid steer for the first time or reinforcing years of field experience, this training helps operators develop safe habits that protect themselves, their coworkers, and the equipment they use every day.

Spanish and French closed captions are included.

Key Benefits

• Reduces the risk of skid steer rollovers and struck-by incidents

• Reinforces safe operating habits for all experience levels

• Improves hazard recognition and situational awareness

• Demonstrates proper inspection and preventative maintenance procedures

• Covers safe attachment installation and removal

• Explains hydraulic safety and pressure hazards

• Supports OSHA safety training initiatives

• Encourages a proactive workplace safety culture

Course Details

Course Length: 11 Minutes

Language(s): English, Spanish, French

SKU: AT262

Closed Captions: English, Spanish, French

Includes: Downloadable participant guide

Delivery: Streaming video on-demand with training license

LMS Compatibility: Compatible with most Learning Management Systems (LMS) or available through our hosted LMS platform

Year Produced: 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How is licensing calculated?
Licensing is based on the total number of learners who will access the course during the license period.

Can I train more than 250 employees?
Yes. We offer enterprise licensing options for larger organizations and multi-location businesses.

Can we use our own LMS?
Yes. Courses are available in SCORM-compatible formats and can be deployed through most learning management systems.

Do you offer multi-course discounts?
Yes. Organizations licensing multiple courses may qualify for discounted workforce training packages.

Do you offer custom pricing?
Yes. We can create customized pricing solutions for enterprise organizations, multi-course licensing programs, annual training initiatives, and large workforce deployments. Contact us for custom pricing tailored to your organization.