A skid loader, skid-steer loader, or skid-steer is a small, rigid-frame, engine-powered machine with lift arms that can attach to a wide variety of buckets and attachments including Grabs breakers forks sweepers etc.

Skid-steer loaders are typically four-wheeled or tracked vehicles with the front and back wheels on each side mechanically linked together to turn at the same speed, and where the left-side drive wheels can be driven independently of the right-side drive wheels. This is accomplished by having two separate and independent transmissions; one for the left side wheels and one for the right-side wheels.

Like other front loaders, they can push material from one location to another, carry material in the bucket, load material into a truck or trailer and perform a variety of digging and grading operations.

• Have a basic understanding of the industry, the dangers of working in the industry and their responsibilities as an operator.
• Have a working Knowledge of the manufacturer’s handbook for the machine to be used be able to locate and identify the major components of the machine and explain their functions.
• Be able to locate and identify key controls and explain their functions.
• Conduct all pre-operational checks in accordance with manufacturers and legislative requirements.
• Identify and maintain PPE appropriate for skid steer loader use.
• Conduct all necessary Safety checks at the Work area.
• Prepare the skid steer loader for use, Operate machinery safely and efficiently
• Environmental consideration
• Storage and transport of implements and attachments.
• Demonstrate Knowledge and understanding of loading and unloading procedures for Machine transportation.
• Carry out all end of shift and shut down procedures

• Suitable and safe area to operate and manoeuvre machine.
• Bulk loads to load and move.
• Varying terrain and slopes.
• Suitable vehicle/skip to load.
• Suitable and safe area to complete paperwork.
• Suitable welfare facilities.
• Skid-steer and attachments.
• Operators’ manual.
• Risk assessment completed.

• Suitable head protection.
• Suitable eye protection.
• Suitable work clothes.
• Gloves.
• Suitable work boots including steel toe protection.
• High Viz.

• Avoiding danger from overhead power cables guidance GS6.
• https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/gs6.pdf
• Avoiding danger from underground services HSG47.
• https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/hsg47.pdf
• PUWER Regulation
• https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/priced/l22.pdf
• LOLER Regulation
• https://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/books/l113.htm

• Pre use and operational checks.
• Stop and start on the gradient whilst travelling up hill and down hill.
• Load vehicle/Skip x3.
• Manoeuvre through a chicane applying the full steering range in both forward and reverse direction. (un-laden and laden) Create ramp incline, 1.5 times width x 1.5 times length of machine.
• Reverse 30 metres in a straight line, through restrictions.
• Drive over uneven and sloping terrain.
• Pass mark is less than 20 penalty points and no mandatory disqualifications.
• Time allowed is 1 hour 15 minutes.

Onsite and off-site centre testing available.