Prepare and operate a tractor with attachments

This standard covers the preparation and operation of a tractor with attachments. The competent use of a tractor with attachments requires considerable skill and knowledge. The standard covers the use of tractors with a range of attachments in a variety of weather conditions and ground conditions and on a variety of terrain. These conditions will have an impact on the handling and use of the tractor. When working with machinery or equipment you should be trained and hold current certification, where required. When using a tractor on the public highway you must hold the relevant licences for both yourself and the tractor. When carrying out your work you must consider the impact it will have on the environment. This standard is suitable for those who operate a tractor with attachments on or off the public highway.

1. assess the risks associated with the required activity
2. wear suitable clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE)
3. prepare the tractor by carrying out pre-start checks and adjustments, in accordance with relevant legislation, instructions and specifications, including all safety guards
4. confirm that the tractor is safe and ready for use
5. mount and dismount the tractor safely
6. check and adjust the operator environment to meet your personal requirements
7. select the attachments to carry out the required work
8. confirm that the attachments are suitable for the tractor
9. confirm that the attachments are fitted securely and safely
10. confirm that the attachments are set or calibrated, where required
11. check the immediate area for hazards and obstacles before moving off, and at all times during operation of the tractor
12. use the correct warning signals at all times
13. operate and manoeuvre the tractor safely, in accordance with the type of tractor, attachment and operation being carried out
14. make sure that the attachment is in the transport position when not in use, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions
15. modify the operating techniques to take into account changes in the weather, ground conditions or types of terrain
16. use efficiency factors to maintain the efficiency of the tractor and attachment performance by appropriate handling and maintenance
17. use the attachment safely at all times
18. monitor the operation of the attachment and recognise any faults
19. stop and isolate the tractor on completion of the activity
20. remove the attachment in accordance with instructions and specifications
21. leave the tractor and attachment secure after use and in the correct condition for future use
22. maintain communication with colleagues and others involved in, or affected by, your work
23. follow industry and business guidance to minimise environmental damage
24. carry out your work in accordance with relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, risk assessment requirements, codes of practice and business policies

1. how to identify hazards and assess risks
2. the type of clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE) suitable for the activity
3. the current legislation in relation to the preparation and operation of tractors and attachments
4. how to prepare the tractor and attachment by carrying out the required pre-start checks and adjustments
5. how to mount and dismount the tractor safely
6. how to start and stop the tractor safely
7. the function of all controls and instruments on the tractor and attachment being used
8. the types of attachments and how they should be secured and removed from the tractor
9. the types of attachments that are safe for use with the tractor you are using and those that are not
10. the conditions that should be taken into account when considering the use of attachments
11. how to set or calibrate the attachments, where required
12. the correct use of warning signals and indicators
13. the ways in which the tractor should be operated and manoeuvred, and that different weather, ground conditions and types of terrain must be taken into account
14. how to operate and use attachments safely including counterbalance
15. the draft control, position control, external hydraulic and electrical services on the tractor and attachment being used
16. how to put the attachment into the transport position and the work position, as required
17. the capabilities and limitations of the tractor and operator and the factors that may affect safety and efficiency
18. the types of hazards and obstacles that may be encountered when operating a tractor with attachments and how these should be dealt with
19. how to monitor the operation of the attachment and any actions that might be required
20. the common faults, defects and wearing parts on attachments used in your place of work
21. the sort of problems that may occur with the tractor or attachment, how to recognise them and the appropriate action to take
22. the importance of carrying out routine checks and maintenance to confirm that the tractor and attachment remain safe and in good working order
23. the reasons why the tractor and attachment should be left in the correct condition for future use
24. why it is important to maintain the safety and security of the tractor and attachment at all times
25. the importance of maintaining communication with those involved in, or affected by, your work and how this should be done
26. the potential impact that your activities could have on the environment and ways in which this can be minimised
27. your responsibilities under relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, codes of practice and business policies

Attachment/s include:

• trailed
• front or rear mounted
• fore-end loaders
• PTO and hydraulic drive equipment

Efficiency factors:

• gears
• hydraulics
• tyre pressure
• counter balance
• ballasting
• engine revs

Ground conditions:

• wet
• dry
• frost
• ice
• mud
• loose ground

Instructions and specifications:

• drawings/plans
• schedules
• method statements
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• manufacturer's guidelines
• customer requirements
• verbal instructions

Operator environment:

• seat
• steering wheel
• mirrors
• seat belt

Pre-start checks:

• fuel
• electrics
• tyres
• hoses
• fluids
• lubrication

Terrain:

• hard surfaces
• soft surfaces
• uneven surfaces
• slopes

LANCS7 Prepare and operate a tractor

LANCS59 Prepare and operate a powered vehicle with attachments